Angry Words

Talking about people behind their backs is not a kind thing to do (read 2 Corinthians 12:20). Nothing good comes from it. Another sinful thing to avoid is to say mean and hateful things to a person's face. You should never make fun of someone. When you make fun of somebody, you need to realize that you are making fun of one of God's creations.

Jesus told us never to say mean things to our fellow Christians, or be angry with them for no reason. During his Sermon on the Mount, Jesus said: "I say to you that whoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment" (Matthew 5:22). David was a man of kind words. He said: "Cease from anger, and forsake wrath; do not fret—it only causes harm" (Psalm 37:8). When we speak mean words out of anger, nothing good comes from it. Also, you cannot teach people about Christ if you are angry all the time, because Jesus taught kindness and love.

The Bible teaches that you can be angry without sinning. Ephesians 4:26 reads: "Be angry and do not sin. Do not let the sun go down on your wrath." Jesus, you may recall, got angry when the people were mocking God by defiling His temple. Jesus was angry, but He did not sin. If you have a problem with somebody, then you need to go to that person, and work things out. When you are angry with someone, calm yourself down and speak peacefully in an attempt to resolve your problems.

If someone is being mean to you or saying bad things about you, do not try to "get even." Just being angry does not solve anything. You can't "out-hate" hate. Hate can be overcome only with love. As Paul told the Romans: "Do not be overcome with evil, but overcome evil with good" (Romans 12:21). At times, people will ask you mean questions, trying to get you to argue with them. Don't argue with people who ask such questions. Arguing would be a waste of your time, and it would be displeasing to God. Instead of arguing, answer kindly. Solomon said: "A soft answer turns away wrath. But a harsh word stirs up anger. The tongue of the wise uses knowledge rightly" (Proverbs 15:1-2).

Talk kindly to those who are your friends, and even those who aren't your friends. You may not enjoy being around everybody, but you can treat everybody you meet with kindness.

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