How to Thrive in TeenagehoodSample

Anger

There is a lot on anger in the bible- I mean a lot. Anger is a response to something- so I think we can expect this. I do not intend to focus on the misuse of anger in the bible, and therefore, let's focus on Jesus.

Jesus did not get angry often. In fact, he is described as the most joyful man on earth. But in the temple, we see a different side to Him. In the temple at that time, the people buying and selling animals for sacrifice and trading coins for temple money set themselves up in the courtyard. This was the place where the Gentiles and women would come to worship.

This makes Jesus obviously angry and so he drives these people out. Make no mistake- this would have been a massive event. All those years at a wood bench sawing and chiselling away would have given Jesus a lot of muscle. But why did Jesus get angry then? Why not when he was being whipped with a cat of nine tails? Or when the God of the universe was being nailed to a cross? Or the greatest man alive was betrayed by one of his own disciples? Or he was mocked and spat on?

I think the reason is Jesus was selfless. Jesus always defended other people. He defended the space for Gentiles and women's worship. He defended an adulterer who was pouring perfume at his feet. Jesus ensured that he only got angry when defending other people. And this may be a clue to a good use of anger. Or righteous anger.

To put it in other words, Jesus never got angry when it was all about Him. To me, I feel that this could be when I get upset most. When it's all about me. And where I am from, letting people just insult you and not responding is really odd, maybe even considered weak. And to defend other people is getting involved in somebody else’s problem. But Jesus demonstrates, defend the weak, and do not respond to those who hurt you. This is a big change- and it will take time. But I encourage you, next time you get angry, think. Why am I angry? Is it about me?