What Jesus Says About Anger - Luke 6:27-36

Have you been this angry with another person? Your brother, sister or friend? The bully at school? It's hard to think what Jesus would do when we are upset, so it's good to learn before someone mistreats us, so we will behave in a godly manner.

Jesus said, "Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.

In this world we cannot expect to be treated fairly. People will say things that hurt us, things we do not deserve. See how quickly you can forgive the one who wronged you. Don't be overly concerned about setting the record straight. Don't worry about what others think of you. Concentrate on what God thinks of you. He loves you enough to send His only Son to die on the cross for your forgiveness and an eternity with Him.

Wait! There's more. Jesus said, "Do to others what you would have them do to you. Love those who are not lovable. Give without expecting anything in return."

Think About it
Consider how Jesus handled conflict. The government was always on His shoulder. The Pharisees accused Him of things He did not do. They hated Him so much they wanted to get rid of Him. Yet He talked to them in pleasant ways. He confronted their sin, their lack of love and compassion, but He did not retaliate to the way they treated Him. Think about these things, and when someone mistreats you this week, think what Jesus would do.

Pray About It
Lord Jesus, it is hard to endure persecution on any level. I need your help. I need your wisdom. Help me not to speak without your strength and wisdom at work in me. Amen.

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