OUR WRATH VERSUS HIS WILL!

OUR WRATH VERSUS HIS WILL!

James 1:19-20

19 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:

20 For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God.

         The Greek word translated “wrath” in both these verses is orge (or-gay) and literally means “desire.” When the desire to have it our own way contends with and challenges the will of God we become guilty. The idea is that our desire is so intense and urgent that we no longer care whether or not it conforms to God’s plans. When our desire is not fulfilled we pout like spoiled children. Any action or reaction while in this frame of mind “does not work the righteousness of God.

Prov 14:29

29 He that is slow to wrath is of great understanding: but he that is hasty of spirit exalteth folly.

         When the prophet Nathan told King David about the stolen ewe lamb, the king became furious and demanded justice but he had, in his anger, condemned himself. His sense of right and wrong were intact but his strong desire had circumvented the righteousness of God. Because he failed to curb his desire he brought pain and folly upon his own house.

         Peter had the only sword available to the disciples in the Garden. When the soldiers came to arrest Jesus Peter almost killed a man. His desire to prevent the arrest and death of Jesus did not promote the will of God for this was the very purpose for which Christ came. It is hard to put down that intense desire which boils over into wrath. We want our own way and we want it immediately. “He that is hasty of spirit exalts folly.” Wrath is exactly the opposite of what God wants to develop in us.

James 1:2-4

2 My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations;

3 Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.

4 But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.

Dear Lord, my own will seems right to me and your will is often hidden from me. Help me not to ruin your righteousness with my foolish wrath. Please arrange the circumstances of my life so that they work together for good. AMEN