Young People's Group

REFUSING TO GIVE PLACE TO THE DEVIL

by Pastor Mitch
June 27, 2004

The Problem Of Unrighteous Anger

A common sin that tarnishes the Lord’s image in His children is uncontrolled anger. It is valid to be angry when there is really a need for it. However, when our wrath is uncalled for and unrestrained, it could lead to sin. Paul was teaching the Ephesian Christians concerning this problem.

“Be angry and do not sin” 
Ephesians 4:26

It is important that Christians do not allow their anger to lead them to sin. When we are caught up with our wrath, we can end up raising our voice and saying things that may be offensive and detrimental.

Giving Place To The Devil Through Unrighteous Anger

“Do not let the sun go down on your wrath, nor give place to the devil.” 
Ephesians 4:26-27

One of the devices of the evil one is to take advantage of our wrath. The idea of “letting the sun go down on our wrath” is to allow our wrath to fester. When we permit our resentment to exacerbate, we will give occasion for Satan to make full opportunity of it. We could produce corrupt words out of our mouth (Ephesians 4:29). The evil one can use our anger to create hatred and animosity even between the best of friends. It could lead us to grieve the Spirit of God deeply.

“And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God…” 
Ephesians 4:30

The Lord’s Spirit will sorrow over our sinful ways. Brethren, let’s not grieve the Holy Spirit. Let’s refuse to give place to the devil.

The Challenge To Put On The New Man

“Be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and that you put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness.” 
Ephesians 4:23-24

Our challenge is to put off the “old man” and to put on the “new man” which is in Christ. It is through the renewing of our minds that the Lord will do a deep work of change in our lives. We will reflect the image of God in true righteousness and holiness. Brethren, let’s not allow our anger to get the better of us.

“Do not let the sun go down on your wrath” 
Ephesians 4:26

Our faith in the Lord must cause us to think differently from the world. It must cause us to have self-control and not allow our wrath to fester and cause hurt to ourselves and others. We are to put aside all bitterness.

“Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamour, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice. And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.” 
Ephesians 4:31-32

Sins associated with anger, shouting at each other and speaking evil of one another, are to be put away. If we so not set such sins aside, they will continue to “haunt” us. We must learn to be kind and gracious to each other. Let’s learn to have hearts that are compassionate and tender. If there is a need to forgive, then we must learn to exonerate a repentant brother. Let’s not give room for Satan to attack us with his schemes. Let’s put on the breastplate of righteousness to protect our hearts and spirit. Let’s put on the “new man” in true righteousness and holiness.

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