I have heard so many people blaming their improper behavior on a bad temper. All of us struggle controlling our emotions, but loss of those emotions is no excuse for sinful behavior. I recall some instances in my life while playing in a Christian Men’s Softball league, where I totally lost my temper, and almost lost my testimony. I am ashamed to even type this on paper today. I was greatly disappointed with myself after each case I am referring to today.
I am sure that there have been times when each of you reading this can relate a similar experience. If you cannot relate; I envy you. Today James’ statement to us is simple. “For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God” (James 1:20). James could have written something like: if we want to be associated with the righteous character of God, our temper needs to be under control. This is a great topic for all people from all different periods of time.
I watch children in the store with their mothers who could use James’ challenge. When a child does not get what they want, we say they throw a temper tantrum. James would say that they are demonstrating unrighteous attitudes and behavior. Children can be taught and need to be taught that this is improper behavior and it is unacceptable.
Most teenagers (ever since time began) have thought that they know more than the adults who are in authority over them. When there is a disagreement, teens often resort to anger and wrath aimed at the adult. When a child shows their immaturity in their temper tantrum, it is bad enough. When a teenager demonstrates their wrath, it shows itself in far more destructive ways.
Many adults have issues with controlling their temper and acts of wrath as well. In the workplace these could cause you to lose your job. In society these kinds of uncontrolled actions can result in prison time. In our churches today, these kinds of actions result in church splits, or even worse, in a reduction of honor from children to parents who “act out.”
When James wrote these words, over 2,000 years ago, he must have been thinking about the challenges of 2018. I don’t really think that was the case. The reality is that this is not a new problem that has surfaced recently. God knows the heart of man. He knows that if we do not control our wrath, that it will control us, and it will destroy any chance for a righteous testimony. I know that I needed this advice today. I hope it has helped you too.