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Anger is a natural emotion, but Jesus calls us to a higher way of living—a Kingdom way. In Matthew 5:21–26, Jesus challenges us to look beyond outward actions to the condition of our hearts. He teaches that unresolved anger damages not only our relationships but also our spiritual health.

Take a moment to pause. Reflect on the relationships in your life and the emotions in your heart. Are there seeds of anger that need to be uprooted?

Meditation Passage
“You have heard that our ancestors were told, ‘You must not murder. If you commit murder, you are subject to judgment.’ But I say, if you are even angry with someone, you are subject to judgment!” (Matthew 5:21–22, NLT)

Guided Reflection

1. Examine Your Heart:
   Jesus points us inward, asking us to confront the emotions and motives beneath the surface. Is there someone you harbor anger toward? Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal any unresolved conflicts or bitterness.
2. Recognize the Cost of Anger:
   Anger, left unchecked, erodes our relationships and spiritual well-being. Like a seed, it grows into bitterness and destruction if not surrendered to God.
   • “Don’t sin by letting anger control you. Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry.” (Ephesians 4:26, NLT)
3. Trust God’s Justice:
   Human anger often seeks revenge or control, but God’s justice is perfect and patient. Release the burden of retaliation and trust Him to work in His timing.
4. Pursue Reconciliation:
   Jesus calls us to make peace a priority, even before offering our worship. Reflect on His words:
   “If you are presenting a sacrifice at the altar and you suddenly remember that someone has something against you, leave your sacrifice there at the altar. Go and be reconciled to that person.” (Matthew 5:23–24, NLT)Who might God be calling you to reconcile with today?

Closing Thought
Anger is not the opposite of love—indifference is. When God is angry, it is because He loves deeply and desires healing and restoration. As you meditate on this teaching, ask God to transform your heart, replacing anger with His peace and reconciliation.