Be angry, but do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, and do not make room for the devil. —Ephesians
This thought is psychology genius. The writer grasps the depths of human emotion bringing it to light within the spiritual tradition.
Be Angry
Anger is going to visit us. We cannot avoid it. Even recognizing what triggers our anger response does not prevent the emotion.
Do Not Sin
This may be the hard part. When anger visits, what is our response? Can we find a way to avoid the explosion where words and actions create inevitable separation and hurt?
Therapists and gurus advise pausing. Good luck trying that at times. But it’s true. A pause, a breath helps. Cultivating a habit of self awareness also helps. My current meditation teacher, Henry Shukman, says, “We all have emotions. Through meditation we can become less identified with it and simply observers of it.”
Do Not Let The Sun Go Down On Your Anger
One of the most revered of the Desert Fathers, Abba Poeman, when asked about dwelling on these emotions, said, “The axe cannot cut down a tree by itself.”
Do not grab that axe handle of anger and use it. Let it lie. Get over it however works for you. Make any necessary apologies. (Hint: just say “I apologize” or “I am so sorry” and do not add any explanation.)
Do Not Make Room For The Devil
The longer we sit in anger, the more likely that our personality will change. We can become one of those bitter, offensive people whom we avoid. We draw apart from God. Prayer becomes impossible. Other people annoy us.
Close that door before it’s too late.
Faith Venture 
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