Many places in the Bible you will read the phrase, “Burning with anger.” So what happens when anger is kindled and ignites within us? Well, first off, it clouds our thinking…like thick smoke swirling up from our burning wrath…we can’t see or think straight. Next, we tend to act first and think later…reacting rather than behaving with good judgment. Finally, burning anger opens the way to hatred which opens the way to the ultimate expression of hatred – murder. So how can we douse the burning anger within us? James 1:19-20 gives us excellent advice to follow, “My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, for man’s anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires.” In other words, when we feel anger coming on we need to stop and really listen to the other person. And that means not waiting until they take a breath so we can charge right in, but listening intently. We next need to allow the conversation time to develop, asking questions and again listening before we speak. Finally, we need to act but not react…putting out the fire before it can spread.
Safetypinlove 