James 1:19-27, Addendum on Self-Control (2)

In the matter of “controlling” our passions, we must also remember that the “law” is ineffective.  This applies to the “law of Moses” or any law or list of does and don’ts we might come across.  The law actually arouses the passions (Rom. 7:5).  The “knowledge” we glean from Scripture must be applied through prayer and the control of the Spirit.  We have said that “knowledge” is important.  But when you know something that will help you to live a Christlike life, what do you do with that knowledge?  You commit your way to the Lord.  You acknowledge your weaknesses.  You acknowledge God’s will.  And then you ask Him to do the work in your life.  What you are about to get are Biblical insights relating to various areas of our lives.  Be careful lest they become the latest “law” in your life.  Instead, make each item a prayer request. 

There are two types of statements in this study.  There are things we need to think about and make part of our “mindset” (e.g. my body is for the Lord).  Then there are things we need to do (e.g. flee tempting situations).

2)    Self-control and anger (losing one’s temper).

a)    Prov. 16:32: Controlling your temper is better than controlling others.

b)    Prov. 29:11: Fools lose their cool; wise men don’t.  How do I want to be known?

c)    Prov. 22:24: Don’t make friendships with a man “given” to anger. 

d)    Eph. 4:26-27:

i)      Deal with resentful situations immediately.

ii)   Satan can gain a foothold through anger.

iii)            Instead, use your anger to bring about good.  In other words, instead of getting mad ask the Lord to help you see how He would use you for good in the situation.  Sometimes we call this “righteous indignation.”  Twice Jesus cleansed the temple in anger (John 2:13-22; Mk. 11:15-19).

e)    James 1:19-20:

i)      Be a good listener.  A better listener.  An avid listener.

ii)   Think before you speak.

iii)            Remember: anger does not bear good fruit.  You may think that your anger makes a change, that the other person “gets the point.”  But that is wrong!  All the other person has done is learn not to irritate you.  But you have not seen the Lord change their sinful way of thinking or acting.  And you have lost some of your “standing” with them, and they will be much less interesting in your opinion the next time. 

Here’s a couple of Biblical illustrations: Ex. 2:11-15 (Moses’ anger in Egypt, which only made matters worse); Num. 20:7-13 (Moses’ anger, striking the rock); 1 Sam. 18:8-11 (Saul’s anger against David).