Daily Word

Be angry, and do not sin; ponder in your own hearts on your beds, and be silent. (Selah) Offer right sacrifices, and put your trust in the Lord. There are many who would say, “Who will show us some good? Lift up the light of your face upon us, O Lord!” You have put more joy in my heart than they have when their grain and whine abound. In peace I will both lie down and sleep; for you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety. Psalm 4:4-8. (Words to the Godly) The singer (Psalmist) tells the godly not to give into the anger that would lead them to take revenge; instead they must remain steadfast in their worship and trust. This (Be angry, and do not sin) should perhaps be taken as a conditional sentence: “If you feel anger at those who slander you (which you may well do), nevertheless do not sin by seeking revenge against them.” They way to prevent sin is to PONDER and BE SILENT: that is, reflect on how the Lord has shown Himself trustworthy. This does not discourage the faithful from using legal resources when necessary; instead it speaks against personal revenge that circumvents the law and consumes the lives of the vengeful. It is the practice of intimate prayer, and the daily study of His Word that enables you to ponder and be silent in times of anger…Which also can be a test of your maturity in Christ!