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It is a universal problem. affecting all people, everywhere, even you and me. It destroys homes, churches, even nations, and might be destroying yours right now. Anger Danger. Anger Endangers Families. Anger Endangers Churches. Anger: first mention was in the first family Genesis 4:1-15.
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It destroys homes, churches, even nations, and might be destroying yours right now.
“Then the LORD said to Cain, "Why are you angry, and why is your expression downcast? If you had done the right thing, you would be smiling; but because you have done evil, sin is crouching at your door. It wants to rule you, but you must overcome it." Genesis 4:6, ESV
“The older brother was so angry that he would not go into the house; so his father came out and begged him to come in. ” Luke 15:28, TEV
Atmosphere Where Anger Grew Pride, Envy and Resentment - “Resentment is like taking poison and waiting for the other person to die.” - Malachy McCourt
See the Father’s heart: He went out to them in their anger. Is God the Father speaking to you about your anger?
Anger Steals Life Joyful moments, peaceful days, much profitable agreement, a quiet spirit, efficiency, health . . . all lost because we are too angry to respond to the Father’s appeal.
Anger Begets Anger • Some families are defined by anger • Some family members express it; some stuff it • All are damaged by it
Is Anger Ever Justified? • When it is righteous: anger at sin, anger at oppression, injustice • Even righteous anger is dangerous to fallen people like us. • “Be angry, but do not sin . . .” Ephesians 4:26
Contributing Conditions • Broken Boundaries • Overstressed lives • Starving Souls • Abusive relationships • Betrayal • Sometimes Fear • Distorted Thinking
Overcoming Anger- IDENTIFYING Anger has degrees: • OCCASIONAL • FREQUENT • CONSTANT • CONSUMING The most severe forms may need special counseling
Overcoming Anger- DELAYS Justifying anger delays deliverance Condemning yourself delays deliverance. Blaming your genetics delays deliverance
Overcoming Through ChristEphesians 4:20-24; 26-27;31-32 • Put off and put on: this is the life of repentance. • Do not let anger lead to sin and give Satan a foothold • Choose to be kind