If you do not become angry when listening to leaders support abortion, there is something wrong with your religion. If they sit calmly as schools impose their lack of morals upon your children, then it is time for you to reconsider your spiritual values. These are but two things that a Christian should lose sleep over, but these are often far down the list of things that upset the average believer.
Instead, Christians expend a lot of time and energy getting angry about the issues of the world. I could make a long list of things that come and go from the 24-hour news cycle that causes too many Christians to see red, but my point will be lost amongst the pet peeves. ‘Anger’ does not appear in the various lists of evil for nothing.
Someone said: “Anger is the devil’s cocaine.”
We do not want to be known as ‘Angry Christians’ – High on hate, perpetually frustrated, and impossible to talk to.
I am not suggesting that we stop being angry. I am saying, with James, “Be slow to anger” (Jm.1:19). James rightly continues: “For the anger of man does not achieve the righteousness of God” (Jm.1:20).
It is for righteous outcomes that Christians engage with the world—we don’t run from it. As Jesus was sending his disciples out to preach, he told them: ‘Be as wise as serpents and as gentle as doves” (Mt.10:16).
It is a cruel world. Changing it demands wisdom from above. Otherwise, you will be outwitted by the devil every time.
But fear not! Your ceaseless prayers will not go unanswered. God will give insight to test the spirits; wisdom to know what to say; and courage to stand firm when you would rather retreat. Be ever ready to pour the emotional energy generated in times of anger into spiritual pursuits.
John Staiger
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