Healthy Anger Is Unusual
Anger against wrong, as wrong, is healthy (Ezek 22:13, CEV; Mk 3:5, WPNT note). Unfortunately, this is unusual. It is difficult to not become angry because of our wounded pride or other petty issues. Mostly, anger involves sinful behavior such as bitter dislike, ill-will, holding grudges, trying to excel at the expense of another, and trying to lessen the happiness of another (Gal 5:19-21, Dake note). God will hold us accountable for these kinds of sinful expressions of anger (Mt 5:22). After all, they are indicative of a failure to be controlled by God’s Spirit, who produces love (Gal 5:22). When we are under the influence of the Holy Spirit, we will not be easily provoked to anger (1 Cor 13:5).
Habits of sinful anger open us up to increasing demonic influence (Eph 4:26-27). We can learn such patterns of anger from others (Prov 16:29, EVD) and are, therefore, to avoid unnecessary association with such individuals (Prov 22:24). Sinful anger is cruel (Prov 27:4). It is of the devil (Jas 3:15). We should seek to avoid being around those who have anger management problems and should not express sinful anger toward others.
In marriage or other close relationships, sinful anger undermines intimacy. We end up focusing on what is negative about our loved one instead of what is positive (Phil 4:8). We send the message that they have not measured up to our standards and, thus, do not deserve a gracious, kind response. Often, sinful anger is an attempt to control the other’s behavior rather than to love them and help them flourish according to the Lord’s intent. Let us seek to avoid sinful anger!
Unending pleasure in the next life; training for godly pleasure in this one.