The scripture "do not let the sun go down while you are still angry" serves as a metaphorical and literal reminder and warning of the urgency in addressing conflict.
Blog by E. Ken Harmon
Rocky III ranks among my favorite movies. It features two men from diverse ethnic backgrounds, with different upbringings and ideologies. Despite their long history of rivalry, they unite to confront a shared adversary. Although this is a cinematic story, a similar event is also found in scripture. Ephesians 4:25-27 serves as a profound reminder to both Jews and Gentiles who have embraced the Christian faith, urging them to unite and concentrate on the true adversary that lies beyond their differences. So how do you Fight Against Fighting?
Tip #1 - Fight for Integrity
The passage begins with a clear directive: "Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body." This statement emphasizes the importance of honesty and integrity in relationships, highlighting that deceit not only harms individuals but also disrupts the unity of the community. Com-unity is likened to a single body. Each member plays a crucial role, and when one part is dishonest, it affects the health and functionality of the entire body.
Tip #2 - Fight for Self Control
The subsequent exhortation, "In your anger do not sin: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry," addresses the natural human emotion of anger. It acknowledges that anger is a valid feeling; however, it cautions against allowing that anger to escalate into sin. This call to action encourages believers to resolve conflicts swiftly and not to harbor unresolved feelings that could lead to bitterness or resentment. The phrase "do not let the sun go down while you are still angry" serves as a metaphorical reminder of the urgency in addressing disputes and fostering reconciliation before they fester into larger issues.
This is why your enemy roams around like a roaring lion "looking" for someone to destroy (1 Peter 5:8). He is always "looking" for an emotional opportunity to exploit. Be careful of what your anger can bring, di-vision in the marriage, house, or church!
Tip #3 - Fight Emotional Exploitation
The warning, "and do not give the devil a foothold," underscores the real fight of Tip #2. Too often we are fighting our boss, spouse, kids, etc., when the real fight are spiritual implications pushing our unresolved anger. It suggests that harboring anger can create an opportunity for demonic influences.
This is why your enemy roams around like a roaring lion "looking" for someone to destroy (1 Peter 5:8). He is always "looking" for an emotional opportunity to exploit. This highlights the importance of maintaining a spirit of forgiveness and grace within your relationships and the church, as unresolved conflicts inevitably lead to division (1 Corinthians 1:10) and strife. Chaos detracts from the mission of the church and the collective witness of its members.
How Do I Walk in Unity?
Great question. Verse 29 answers this by stating, "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to [now this will sting your pride] their needs, that it may benefit those who listen." Do not, in common vernacular, means DON'T DO IT!!! In other words, are your words on FB, X (Tweets), LinkedIn, etc., beneficial to those both inside and outside the faith? Are your words in the pulpit bringing unity in the faith or getting you likes, claps and applauses? Do your words show what, or rather, Who is the priority to you? In essence, these verses call for a conscious effort to cultivate truthfulness, manage anger constructively, and prioritize unity among believers, regardless of their socio-economic, political, or ethnic backgrounds.
Takeaway? It is hard to tear down what you are consciously building up.
Ephesians remind the faithful that their true battle is not against each other but against the forces that seek to sow discord and division. By focusing on these principles, Jews and Gentiles, black and white, men and women, rich and poor can strengthen their bonds and work together toward a common purpose, embodying the love and harmony that the body of Christ is intended to reflect.
Additional Resource: The Bait of Satan, Paul Bevere
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