Road Rage

 Road rage is an epidemic that inflicts us as we live in a stressful, crowded environment. It is strange how operating a motor vehicle, a machine of modern convenience, could transform the one behind the wheel, into a raging, violent person. We wonder why many are easily provoked, justly or unjustly when they are cloistered in the privacy of their cars. The violence that could erupt in the streets because somebody loses his cool, always end in regret or remorse. 

Anger is an emotion characterized by antagonism toward someone or something you feel has deliberately done you wrong. Anger is a natural human emotion experienced by all. But excessive anger can  be a bad thing causing serious problems. Excessive anger may become wrath. The range of anger is as broad as life’s experiences. 

Scripture tells us anger could lead to sin. God gave us this natural human emotion for there can be righteous anger or indignation. It’s opposite, is sinful anger. It is not a sin to feel angry, but what we do next or how long we allow anger to dwell can lead us to sinfulness. Scripture teaches that human anger is dangerous, but righteous anger is when we are angry about evil and sin in the world. Truly, we cannot ignore evil and injustice.

The Bible addresses anger and wrath in several passages, providing guidance on how to handle these emotions:

1. Ephesians 4:26-27: "In your anger do not sin": Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold." This verse acknowledges that anger is a natural emotion, but it warns against allowing anger to lead to sin or giving room for the devil's influence.

2. Proverbs 14:29: "Whoever is slow to anger has great understanding, but he who has a hasty temper exalts folly." This verse emphasizes the importance of patience and self-control, indicating that those who are slow to anger demonstrate wisdom and understanding.

3. James 1:19-20: "My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires." These verses urge believers to practice patience, active listening, and restraint in their reactions. They emphasize that human anger often leads to actions contrary to godly righteousness.

4. Proverbs 15:1: "A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger." This verse encourages responding to anger or wrath with gentle and kind words. It suggests that a calm and compassionate approach can help diffuse and resolve conflicts.

5. Colossians 3:8: "But now you must also rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips." This verse calls for believers to let go of anger and other negative emotions, replacing them with virtuous attributes such as kindness and forgiveness.

6. Do not be quickly provoked in your spirit for anger resides in the lap of fools. Ecclesiastes 7:9