Let Anger Go

January 8, 2015
Bible in a year: Genesis 4-7

Devotional passage: Genesis 4:7 NRSV

"...If you do well, will you not be accepted? And if you do not do well, sin is lurking at the door; its desire is for you, but you must master it.”

This verse comes as a warning to Cain for his anger when God favors Abel's offering of the fat from the first lambs of his flock to Cain's fruit of the ground.

There are times in each of our lives when our efforts go unrecognized or our good intentions are misunderstood; when you've done what you think is right, noble, or helpful and someone else gets the credit for your work or their own better work. Or, something goes wrong and, in spite of your attempt at helpfulness, others are upset by your interference. This might be where we got the saying "The road to hell is paved with good intentions." When this happens to us do we respond with indignant anger toward others?

God knows that Cain is angry. And, there's no doubt God knows Cain's plan to escape his brother's shadow. And yet, God warns Cain to manage his anger. God is not saying "Don't be angry," but rather, "Don't hold on to your anger." The Lord's words are, "...you must master it."

When we let anger get the best of us and predominate emotions like forgiveness, compassion, understanding, and even humility, we open that door where "sin is lurking." That is when we act rashly and hurt others, burn our metaphorical bridges, or make poor choices that go against God.

Therefore, let us pray for relief from hurt feelings and anger toward those who hurt us.

In Matthew 5:39, Jesus instructs, "But I say to you, Do not resist an evildoer. But if anyone strikes you on the right cheek, turn the other also..."

Loving God, we ask that you help us to recognize our moments of anger toward others and lead us to a place of forgiveness and understanding. May we treat each other with the grace and loving mercy you show us at all times. In your Son's name we pray, amen.