Thursday, November 20, 2014

Angry Americans and the Peace that Surpasses All Understanding

Americans are angry. Actually, according to recent studies, Americans are really angry. USA Today says that sixty percent of Americans report feeling angry or irritable – up from fifty percent just two years ago. Harvard Medical School published a study in which two-thirds of American teens report anger attacks involving the destruction of property, threats of violence, or engaging in violence. Again, Americans are angry.

With that in mind, the teachings of Jesus’ church are more important than ever. Grace, forgiveness, love, contentment, gratitude, and peace are virtues Christianity has promoted for centuries. The Son of God taught us these virtues in person. In a culture that seems to be getting more and more cranky, it makes sense that we would embody and promote those virtues.

In the book of James, the Bible says, “My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.” There is a righteous life Jesus calls His people to, it is different than anger, and the world around us can learn from it.

As you go through the coming week, ask the Lord to help you love. Pray that the Lord will cultivate a peace that surpasses understanding. Open your life to the joy of the Lord. As you do, you will find freedom from a life driven by emotions and temperament. You will also become a witness to a world gone mad.    

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