Anger Kills

Genesis 4:6-8  "Why are you so angry?" the Lord asked Cain.  "why do you look so dejected?  You will be accepted if you do what is right.  but if you refuse to do what is right, then watch out!  Sin is crouching at the door, eager to control you.  But you must subdue it and be its master."  On day Cain suggested to his brother, "Lets go out into the field."  And while they were in the field, Cain attacked his brother, Abel, and killed him.

Ephesians 4:26-27  And “don’t sin by letting anger control you.” Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry, for anger gives a foothold to the devil.

We had a horrible tragedy take place a couple of houses away from mine.  A man estranged from his wife came back to their home to talk with her and ended up killing her while their teenage son tried to stop it.  My heart is broken for this family.  I can't begin to imagine the pain and damage this boy has suffered, the deep, unthinkable sorrow of the daughter who fortunately was not home at the time, and the overwhelming guilt this man will carry for the rest of his life. 

I keep thinking of anger and how dangerous it is when allowed to fester and boil inside our heart.  I don't believe this kind of  anger just happened in those moments before his tragic actions.  This kind of rage comes from years of allowing resentments to run freely in one's heart.  It comes from harboring unforgiveness, disappointment and bitterness, letting this toxic stew simmer until one day it just bubbles over.  I know this is an extreme case, but any action or words that come from this dark place will cause some kind of harm....sometimes irrevocable harm. 

What's in my heart?  What's in your heart?  Are there things we need to let go of?  The Bible warns us of the dangers unrighteous anger can bring. 

Lord, I am so saddened for this family.  My heart is heavy thinking about these two young people who have to live with this tragedy in their family.  I don't know how they can heal....but I know You do and You can.  Please send them people that will bring Your love and care to them.  Please let them find their peace and healing in You.  And I ask for this man as well, that You will reach his heart with forgiveness.  Lord, let each of us examine our hearts and rid ourselves of any anger, unforgiveness, resentments and bitterness...Lord, every time I get angry over some perceived slight or annoyance, help me to bring it to You right away and let it go.  I pray, as always, in the holy, healing Name of Jesus.  Amen.

Please keep this family in prayer.  Thank you.