Slow to Wrath

There are many biblical principles that are easy to understand, and yet difficult to apply. This is especially true when we are confronted by wrath. We can easily quote what the bible says we ought to do, but making the application in the heat of the moment is not lacking in challenge.

James wrote, “So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear; slow to speak, slow to wrath; for the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God.” (James 1:19-20). We are very familiar with this passage. Making the application, however, is where the challenge of Christian living begins. So, the question is, “How do we maintain self-control when things get hot?”

Know the Dangers of Wrath. The problem with wrath is that it often leads to other sins. Jesus discussed the sin of murder in the Sermon on the Mount. He stated, “You have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not murder, and whoever murders will be in danger of the judgment.’ But I say to you that whoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment…” (Matthew 5:21-22a)

Jesus taught the importance of resisting sin by stopping it where it begins. In this case, the root of murder finds fertile soil for growth within the chambers of an angry heart. Therefore, when anger is eradicated from the heart, murder fails to find the nutrients needed for its growth and development. Anger loses its power when we understand that its pathway leads only to other sins that will lock us outside of heaven’s gate and cause us to be the recipients of God’s eternal wrath.

Know the Benefits of Self-Control. Admittingly, there are some situations we can find ourselves in that would appear to justify a wrathful response. In fact, given the right stimulus, very few would expect anything less than wrathful response.

For example, we remember what occurred in the life of Paul and Silas during their time at Philippi. They were falsely accused, stripped of their clothes, beaten with rods, and cast into the inner prison where only the vilest of criminals were kept. No one would blame them for being angry toward all those who placed them in this predicament. However, we read of an unexpected response. Luke records, “But at midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them.” (Acts 16:25).

The self-control that Paul and Silas exercised on that day set a profound example for the other prisoners. Not only that, but their response led to a conversion of the Philippian jailor and his family. I humbly submit, that had Paul and Silas’ reaction been typical, Acts 16 would have read quite differently.

Being slow to wrath is not easy. It takes a predetermined mindset and a steadfast attitude. However, when we see the benefits of exercising self-control and becoming slow to wrath, we too can have a great impact upon the world around us. May this always be our goal as Christians.

God Bless Each of You,

Eric Hicks