Beech Tree News Network

In our last article, we noted how man usually acts in exactly the opposite manner as God (Isa. 5:20-23). God’s ways are higher than man’s (Isa. 55:8-9). We noted how David and Jonah were guilty of getting mad at the wrong things. In like manner, we can become angry at the wrong things if we are not careful.

Why do people get angry at the wrong things? In David’s case, his selfishness motivated him to hide the truth, mislead a nation, and arrange for Uriah’s execution (II Sam. 11). When Nathan told David the parable of the ewe lamb, he got angry at the injustice, but he refused to acknowledge his own sin (II Sam. 12). When his plan for killing Uriah succeeded, he was not upset nor angry about that at all. Do we see how his reasoning is completely backward? He should have repented for his sins of adultery, murder, lying, trying to hide the truth, coveting his neighbor’s wife, and stealing a man’s wife (Ex. 20:13-17). Instead, he sought to hide those sins and became angry over a lamb! David’s selfishness confused his thinking for a while.

The case of Jonah was very similar. He did not want to preach to the Ninevites because he knew God would forgive them (Jonah 4:2). While waiting to see what would happen in the city, God prepared a gourd to provide shade and relief for him (Jonah 4:6). When it was gone, though, he was angry. His selfishness found joy in something meant for him, but he could not see his way clear to be happy for a city of people who were spared destruction and forgiven of their sin (Jonah 4:10-11).

Judas was this way as well. His anger stemmed from the fact that he wanted the treasury for himself! He did not see why the ointment poured out on Jesus couldn’t have just been sold for money. He reasoned that he would have then used the money for his own purpose! Again, selfishness clouds man’s judgment, and this is just another example. Should he not have repented of his actions and asked for forgiveness? Instead, he was mad at Mary.

Instead of being happy to be able to hear the truth preached from the mouth of Christ, the ruling class of Jews became angry with Christ! They did not want to change. They did not want to live as the Lord said to live. Therefore, instead of humbling themselves and following the Lord, in their selfish pride, they castigated Christ! They were angry with the Lord and sought for an opportunity to kill Him until they finally succeeded!

Friends, there is no question that there are times when we get angry. Let us make sure we are like the Lord and are angry for the right reasons. Let us also express our anger in the right way (Eph. 4:26-27)! When we are confronted with our sin, then let us not get angry about it, but humble ourselves and repent. Let us not allow pride and selfishness to blind us to the truth as others did. Yes, when angry, it is hard to control our emotions and actions, but it must be done if we are to be followers of Christ. No one said being a Christian would be easy, but it is the best!

-- You are invited to visit with the Caneyville church of Christ. Times of services: Sun.: 10:00 am, 10:45 am, 5:00 pm; Wed.: 7:00 pm. Website: http://caneyvillechurchofchrist.com Tune in to our radio program 101.5 FM at 5:30 am, Mon-Fri. Questions? Call: (270) 589-4167