Outbursts of anger are seen and heard in homes and public places more and more these days. While shopping in our nearby Superstore recently, we witnessed a mother loudly berating her young son for some irritating thing he was doing at the time. I tried to see the whole picture in proper perspective and quickly thought back to my own days of shopping with three little munchkins in tow. And even recently when three grandsons spent a week with us, and they wanted to scamper around the same store and hide from Grandpa and Grandma under the clothing racks. What a great experience!
We know that many times situations involving families can quickly turn from verbal onslaughts to abusive violence. These nightmare scenes then involve the intervention of police and other people in a position to bring a halt to the abuse that results from anger that is not under control. Is all anger necessarily a bad thing?
Uncontrolled anger that is expressed in such a manner that shows the angry person has no interest in trying to work out a compromise with the other person is certainly always wrong. But, we know from the scripture that sometimes anger needs to be verbalized in such a manner that will help the angry person and the one hearing the expression of anger. Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor, for we are all members of one body. In your anger do not sin. Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold. (Ephesians 5:25-27 NIV)
How is it possible for us to correctly express our anger when we sincerely believe we are on the side of righteousness? Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. (Ephesians 5:29 NIV) If our beloved child that is under our care is behaving in such a manner that it will place their future life in danger, then it is time for us to come out of solitude and let the words flow. These words of correction should be given in a context of love and respect for our child or other loved one. It is not necessary to put them down, but express our anger with words that will build up the good qualities of our children.
We know from facing the realities of this real world that if a child is involved in some evil behavior, then they will most likely attempt to be secretive about it, not only to protect themselves, but others involved with them. If we as a parent discover that one of our children has been using marijuana or some other illegal drug, then we must take action immediately to save this person from a long life of sad addiction. Holding back our anger at that time would be a foolish thing to do. The child needs to understand that there are rules in the home made by the parents and the child must obey them - or else, and let them know what the or else involves. Then strictly enforce the rules and the punishment. Our anger at that time needs to be heard by the child, and the child must hear and see the great disappointment of the parent. This is not a time for tolerance of the child`s behavior. This is the time for enforcement. Be strong, and in control or emotions.
As we prepare our minds to speak to our children about evil behavior, we must pray for God`s wisdom and guidance. When we speak the child can hear our emotions without us going off on long tangents about all the bad things they have done since they were born, and how much suffering and pain this has caused us. We must speak plainly and firmly, but with complete honesty in love for the child. Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. (Ephesians 5:29 NIV)
Let us pray for our families that are struggling to live in loving relationships, even while our entertainment industry parades example after example of violent behavior. God helps us restore peace to our homes!
If you have never accepted by faith that Jesus of Nazareth is the Christ, Son of God, then take a step of faith today. You will always find a warm and friendly welcome at the Cedar Key Church of Christ. We are dedicated to letting God`s word be the last word. Write any questions or comments to me at PO Box 186, Cedar Key, FL 32625, or E-mail: dgbinkley@aol.com. Ask to be included in our daily E-mail: WORD OF THE DAY scripture devotional. | 