The anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God. James 1:20
Understanding our wretched condition apart from Christ is profoundly helpful for us as we pray for and long for unbelieving friends and relatives to come to Christ.
Think about a father and mother who have been grieving for many years for their daughter. She went into a deep rebellion in her early teens. She made life at home extremely difficult for both her parents, and when she left home she broke their hearts.
If you asked them, they would tell you that not only were they exasperated, but there were times when they were furious with her. Do you know what this is like? You are frustrated by the stubbornness of someone you love, and you know it isn’t getting you anywhere.
Think about this verse: “The god of this world has blinded the minds of unbelievers so that they cannot see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ.” If the blindness is real, this daughter really can’t see what her parents see in Christ. It’s not just that she doesn’t want to see. She really can’t see! This can help us. If you know that a person is blind, you don’t get angry with them, you have compassion for them.
Being angry with the unbelieving world doesn’t get you anywhere. You may say, “Didn’t Jesus drive out the money changers?” Yes, but he is the sinless Son of God. To us he says, “Let him who is without sin cast the first stone.”
Is there someone in your life that you realize is blind? Ask God to help you move from anger to compassion.
[Based on the sermon series "Regeneration: How Christ Changes Your Soul"]
For more resources by Colin Smith visit Unlocking the Bible, where you can request a free sample of LifeKEYS Daily devotional, listen to the radio program, or browse other gospel-centered, Christ-exalting resources. You can also follow Colin on Twitter.
