Wiser and Happier: Devotions From Time of GraceNäide

Personal Integrity: Control your anger “Born to Be Wild” is more than just a song (Steppenwolf, ca.1968). It is a summary of the basic human state of mind when untouched by the gospel. Come on--admit it. Throwing off restraint is exhilarating. So is losing your temper. There was a time when I thought that angry people were unhappy. Actually it’s worse than that. Blowing up and “going off” on someone actually releases a blast of adrenaline that many people find exciting. There’s a thrill to telling somebody off. Have you felt it? The problem is that anger is pure emotion, and emotion is usually irrational. Anger outbursts rarely solve any problems or do any good. They more often destroy things and people. Here is some of God’s wisdom: “He who guards his lips guards his life, but he who speaks rashly will come to ruin” (Proverbs 13:3). If you’ve lost your temper, let Jesus help you find it again. And if you must be wild, take a ride on your Harley.