Scripture to Read: Luke 6:10–11
Jesus knew what He was about to do, but before the miracle, He looked around to see if anyone was willing to answer His question. Everyone kept silent, and so God had Luke record this in Luke 6:10–11, “After looking around at them all, He said to him, ‘Stretch out your hand!’ And he did so; and his hand was restored. 11 But they themselves were filled with rage, and discussed together what they might do to Jesus.” Jesus healed the withered hand and in so doing, no doubt, refreshed that man incredibly. But the scribes and Pharisees were filled with rage. Anger and rage are destroyers. God warns us in Ephesians 4:26–27, “Be angry, and yet do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, 27 and do not give the devil an opportunity.” God makes it clear that righteous anger is appropriate; for instance, being angry at immorality or injustice or ungodly behavior, since these are the things that cause us to break fellowship with our Lord. God also wants us not to give the devil an opportunity. When our emotions rule us, then we open a door to our fleshly desires, and we head down the path to committing sin. God wants our hearts and minds ruled by His love and His Word—that is why God tells us in Colossians 3:16, “Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom…” When God’s Word fills our minds and hearts, then we become usable tools for God and His glory.
Challenge & Application
Why are anger and rage such destroyers?
How do you guard your heart from allowing your emotions to rule you?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!