The Consequences of Reacting in Anger

by Walt and Sharron Scott, Senior Pastors

Let Go and Soar Ministries

12/4/14

We feel a responsibility to respond to the resent unrest that was sparked by the Ferguson, Missouri incident with Michael Brown, in New York with Mr. Eric Garner, and the 12-year old boy with a pellet rifle from Cleveland Ohio. All of these situations could have been resolved much differently. Instead of being proactive, the persons involved behaved re-actively in anger. This is applicable to both sides.

As citizens we are told we are not to respond with deadly force unless confronted by deadly force. We believe and have been told that the police are trained to use deadly force only after all other options are exhausted, although it seems they oftentimes ignore these options. We also feel that training which teaches respect for authority, law enforcement, and for other people in general is, in most cases not being taught in our homes. What does seem to be on the curriculum is enabling, entitlement and privilege. Violence as reaction to adversity has become the norm in a world where reacting in anger is acceptable. Let us be very clear about one thing: anger is what we feel when we don't get our way. How we react or respond to that anger is a CHOICE.

In the last 50 years videos, games, TV shows, books and movies have become so death oriented, so violent, that it has made death and violence a “normal” part of life. Games such as those on Xbox, Playstation, videos readily available on the internet, and the myriad zombie and vampire movies and TV shows available during what used to be considered “family time.” Superheroes have even changed, resulting to violence to achieve their victories. This is all considered and viewed as “normal” until it happens to someone you love. Suddenly it is not just a movie or game or a story any more. It becomes very real.

So, on both sides of this coin, civilian and law enforcement, fear and disregard for the value of human life is evident. Those children we raised are the ones now involved. These incidents would have much different outcomes if we taught and followed the principles and example of Jesus Christ in our homes first, and also in our schools.

Why does dialogue, negotiation, and reconciliation only seem to take place after death and destruction? Why do we never seem to think first or learn anything from our history? We refer to all of the lessons taught us during the civil rights movement in the 60s and 70s. What does that tell the world about our professed Christian faith as a nation?

We are, as followers of Jesus Christ, who is “the Way, the Truth and the Life”, supposed to emulated his example. We are instructed to love God, our neighbor, and each other as he loves us. Christians are supposed to represent the Body of Jesus Christ—his Church. Each member doing their part to represent and support this Body. Instead, it seems that many of our hearts, minds and bodies have chosen atrophy or, at the least, apathy. All of the excuses we hear with regard to age, health, time, and so on are just that—excuses for not getting involved.

Triune God is the priority in all things. He is the provider for all you are, have, or will ever need. Don't stagnate in your comfort zone. Step out, speak out, be the Good News.

The enemy satan wins when we react in any way that doesn't model the example Jesus Christ left us. We know as a nation we are far from perfect, but our objective and goal should be to achieve the highest level of excellence that we are capable of achieving.

Let's all do our part, as “One nation, under God, indivisible” in answering the prayer of Jesus Christ as stated in the Bible, John 17:20-26.