Target Point, Vol. 19 of 31 Today's Verse/Thought: Me, Myself and I
For where envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing will be there. James 3:16
Life Implication:
Let's take a moment to review what we have thus far covered in the proper management of anger. We've looked at the fact that it has a purpose, corrects destructive behavior, is without hatred, and expresses care. You might say you never realized that anger has so many good points! Remember, our emotion of anger is God-given. So let's continue to dig in!
Another positive part of anger is that it IS NOT SELFISH. It considers the needs and concerns of others before its own. Sounds like what Jesus says about the subject of love in I Corinthians 13. It involves seeking out and finding the cause. Anger should never be used to gain our own way or to hurt others.
Anger which focuses on our own selfish needs and concerns is anger which is full of sin. The height of self-centeredness is rooted in pride. Pride is one of the major concerns that God speaks of in scripture. Selfish anger desires to win, no matter what the cost. It must always be right.
Life Application:
Have you ever been around someone who speaks only about him or herself? What a drag! Proverbs 16:18 tells us that it is pride that comes before a fall. Often it is easy to spot a self-centered motivation in another person. But how often we can miss that pride-filled motive in our own reactions and responses. We are just sure we are right and we have every right in the world to be angry!!! Right?
Analyze just what it is that makes you angry. Ask yourself these questions: Am I being self-centered in any way? If I am feeling frustrated and discontent, is it because a selfish desire is not being fulfilled? Recognizing pride in oneself is a huge step toward getting rid of a self-centered attitude. I can't think of a better way to release a prideful mindset than to tell the Lord about it, repent of that spirit (again, do a 180) and then ask Him to fill you with His Spirit, giving you the mind of Christ. Now that's health!!
Tomorrow In TargetPoint:
A Lifetime Warranty