Ruffled feathers don’t have to lead to anger

In 2009, “Angry Birds” was released. It became an instant hit with fans around the world.

The game’s premise has to do with a flock of birds that got their “feathers ruffled” when pigs stole their eggs. The player launches one bird at a time from a sling shot at the pigs, trying to demolish the shelters of the pigs with the objective of killing the pigs before going on to the next level.

It’s one thing to laugh at digital birds that get their feathers ruffled, but when it happens in real life — the matter can be serious. We cannot prevent situations in life where our “feathers are ruffled” and where we are tempted to exhibit “life’s rage” but that doesn’t mean we have to yield to the temptation and remain sinfully angry.

“In your anger do not sin: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry.” (Ephesians 4:26)

Being angry and not sinning requires the discernment of constant practice because so much of our anger is rooted in our prideful, selfish sin nature. We all allow our anger to get the best of us at times. When we are wronged, we naturally want to retaliate or “fix the problem” in the fastest way. When our response involves “rage, anger, harsh words, and slander” (Ephesians 4:31), we have crossed a line.

When we feel anger, we have two options: we can respond in mercy by graciously and quickly addressing the source of the anger. Or, we can respond out of frustration and allow a root of bitterness to enter our lives. When we are angry, it is a good time to take a step back and remember God’s graciousness to us. It is not wrong to feel anger, but it is wrong to cling to it tightly.

“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you” (Ephesians 4:32).

The key is using our tempers, not losing them. And remember— God’s Grace is enough to keep us from getting our “feathers ruffled.”

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Editor’s note: The Rev. Dr. Scott Stewart can be contacted at revjstewart@gmail.com or 479-659-9519.