Be angry and do not sin, do not let the sun go down on your anger. – Ephesians 4:26

Just as continual pain can be a signal that something is wrong in your body, persistent negative emotions, such as anger, may be a signal that something is wrong in your life. Is anger sin? Jesus was perfect and did not sin, but He became angry when He saw the temple being used as a place of commerce rather than a place of prayer. He drove out the money-changers with a whip (John 2:13-17).

However, when anger is not handled correctly, it can lead to sin. Notice that Jesus did not injure the money-changers. His anger was directed toward the sin, not the sinner. Today’s verse instructs not to let the sun go down on your anger. In other words, deal with it promptly. Dealing with anger may mean addressing a situation immediately, or it could mean walking away to avoid a harsh reaction directed toward someone instead of the actual issue. The first step is to be aware and acknowledge that you are angry. Instead of being quick to judge and find fault, identify what is behind the emotion. Then let the Holy Spirit lead you in resolving it.

Is there something wrong that needs to be fixed? Seek the Lord for wisdom and clarity about the circumstances. Once the initial storm has blown over, and you have prayed for the solution and received an answer, proceed in love. Though you may feel strong emotion over what is happening in this country, pray for the people involved. Intercede on behalf of those currently in office and those who are seeking to serve. Ask God to work out His will in this nation and the midterm elections next month. Pray that the Lord will draw the hearts of many to salvation in Christ.