— Ephesians 4:26 AMPC
Now I don't know about you, but I'm glad this verse is in the Bible because it helps us to build character by giving us a guideline to follow in handling our anger: Let go of anger before bedtime.
There is only one problem. What happens when we become good and mad just before bedtime? If we become mad in the morning, at least we have all day to get over it. But when we become mad close to bedtime, we have to make a quick decision.
Why is it so bad for us to go to bed angry? I think it is because while we sleep, what we are angry about has time to get a hold on us and take root in us. But the Word says, Leave no [such] room or foothold for the devil [give no opportunity to him] (see Ephesians 4:27 AMPC).
This verse tells us what happens if we refuse to get over our anger by bedtime: It opens a door for the enemy and gives Satan a foothold. Once Satan gets a foothold in our lives, then he tries to establish a stronghold.
You may wonder, Well, if I am mad, what should I do about it? Get over it! You may think, That's easy for you to say, but you're not in my situation. I may not be in your situation, but you are not in my situation either. We all have different situations. If you are going to live a joyful, victorious life, you have to do so by choice and not by feelings.
In Deuteronomy 30:19 (AMPC) the Lord tells us, ...I have set before you life and death, the blessings and the curses; therefore choose life.... Choose life by refusing to give in to anger. Take responsibility for your anger and learn to deal with it—process it and bring closure to it, and that will relieve the pressure.
Prayer Starter: Father, I thank You that know me inside and out. Please help me to get to the root of my anger and not allow the enemy to gain a foothold in my life. Help me not to react out of my emotions, but please strengthen me to make decisions that lead to peace. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
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