When people get angry, situations can get blown out of proportion and often do. Sometimes anger is even vented in the wrong direction; at others not even involved. When anger is allowed to fester, perspective is not as clear as when one remains calm. Anger can cause perspective to be skewed. It can also move thinking to become irrational.
Somone has said, “Anger is the wind that blows out the light of reason.” (original source unknown) Is this not what happened with Cain?
We read. . .
“(3) In the course of time Cain brought to the Lord an offering of the fruit of the ground, (4) and Abel also brought of the firstborn of his flock and of their fat portions. And the Lord had regard for Abel and his offering, (5) but for Cain and his offering he had no regard. So Cain was very angry, and his face fell. (6) The Lord said to Cain, “Why are you angry, and why has your face fallen? (7) If you do well, will you not be accepted? And if you do not do well, sin is crouching at the door. Its desire is contrary to you, but you must rule over it.”” (Genesis 4:3-7 ESV)
Though God tried to reason with him, instead of being angry with himself, Cain took his anger out on his brother. Instead of leaving the door shut, he opened it to allow the sin to come in and rule over him rather than he over it. Opening the door, the wind of anger blew out the light of reason and Cain blew it!
Let us remember Paul’s exhortation where we read. . .
“(26) Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, (27) and give no opportunity to the devil.” (Ephesians 4:26-27 ESV)
Though we must exercise caution, clearly being angry is not the sin. Anger is an emotion we were created with the ability to possess. To be angered is an indicator of something seen as not being right either with self or the actions of others. However, what we do with that anger — how we respond to the emotion — is important to keep in mind.
As James urged. . .
“(19) Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; (20) for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God.” (James 1:19-20 ESV)
Though there is room for righteous indignation, may we seek God’s help in ruling over it lest it rule over us!
Have a great day NOT ALLOWING THE DEVIL TO GET HIS FOOT IN THE DOOR!
Carl
