Anger: The Good, The Bad and The Ugly

At some point and time everyone experiences anger. It is an inevitable part of the human condition. However, what separates the men from the boys is how we handle anger. On one hand anger can put in motion a very positive effect; such as Jesus over turning the money changers tables in the temple. He restored the proper respect for the Lord's house. On the other, anger can be abusive and damaging when it is allowed to fester and transform into destructive rage. Although we can not control the misbehavior of others, we can control our response to others ill behavior. We are not responsible for the way others treat us, but we are, however, responsible for our treatment of others. What is the panacea to bitterness? Forgiveness. It is a choice - not an emotion. And the sweet fruit of forgiveness is peace of heart and mind.

The High Price of Honesty

To be honest is to take a risk, but it is a key element in truly loving people. If you really care about someone, you will take the time and risk forfeiting the relationship in speaking the truth to them - even if it is confrontational. David said it best in Psalm 40:10 "I do not hide your righteousness in my heart; I speak of your faithfulness and salvation. I do not conceal your love and your truth from the great assembly." David's great love for God's people was evident in the fact he wanted them to know this God he served.

Speaking the truth in a loving way displays maturity. Ephesians 4:15 "Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ." Likewise, the immature of heart do not have the courage to stand up and speak the truth.

Without truth and love there is no freedom. Not only are you showing your love and concern for someone when you are honest, you are setting them free from the lies of the enemy. John 14:6 "Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." 1 John 4:16 "And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him. " John 8:32 "Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." John 8:44 "You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father's desire. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies."

When you speak the truth in love you are protecting your loved ones. Psalm 40:11 "Do not withhold your mercy from me, O LORD; may your love and your truth always protect me."

Who do you love? Are you speaking the truth to them, even if it is uncomfortable? Let this little blog encourage you to stand up and fight for the truth so that your loved ones can be free and protected.