Category: do you want us to call fire down from heaven to destroy them? Luke 9:54

Today’s Scripture: Acts 12:1-2 I love stories with happy endings. This week’s story is one of them. Despite their hot tempers and impulsive, knee-jerk reactions, James and John were two of Jesus’ closest friends as well as part of His “inner circle” of disciples. Traveling more than three years with the Messiah went a long way in helping chisel off[…]

Today’s Scripture: Matthew 5:38-42; Romans 13:1-2 In the sermon on the mount, Jesus cautioned the disciples about taking revenge on others—particularly authority. They were living under the oppressive rule of the Roman government, and the Jews were often treated unfairly. For example, if a Roman soldier told a Jewish person he needed him and his donkey to transport a load[…]

Today’s scripture: Proverbs 28:13-14 Recently I discovered something about myself. I didn’t think I had an anger problem until something surfaced over a costly decision I made that I later regretted. Instead of quietly trying to correct what I did, I inwardly fumed with frustration projected toward others. “It was their fault for getting me involved in this,” I complained[…]

Today’s Scripture: Proverbs 13:13; 1 Peter 5:5-6 When a person unleashes anger, he says and does things he later regrets. We can’t retrieve our words or undo our actions. What’s said is said, and what’s done is done. Uncontrolled anger creates other issues—like stubbornness. Two researchers discovered that people who show uncontrolled anger are more likely to stubbornly support their[…]

Today’s Scripture: Psalm 4:4; Proverbs 13:10 The Bible does give us permission to express anger, providing we don’t commit sin in the process. The difference is WHY we become outraged. Some people call it “righteous indignation.” For example, Jesus was incensed when he saw the money-changers in the temple. He was concerned, not for Himself, but for the protection of[…]

Today’s Scripture: Luke 9:51-53; 2 Kings 17:24-34 Jesus and His disciples were on their way to Jerusalem. Jews headed to a Jewish city. But, He sent messengers go ahead of them into a (non-Jewish) Samaritan village to prepare for His arrival—possibly to find a place to eat and sleep. When the Samaritans heard His destination was Jerusalem, they refused to[…]

Today’s Scripture: Luke 9:51-56; Mark 3:17 Have you noticed how much anger there is in the world today? Outbursts from flight attendants and passengers—increased road rage—rudeness to and from customer service employees—workplace violence—domestic violence—political debates—election results–verbal attacks within the safety of Facebook and other social media. Even lyrics to songs show an underlying stream of hidden anger that’s ready to[…]