Cross Emotions

S

(Isaiah 12:1) You will say in that day: "I will give thanks, O Lord, for though You were angry with me, Your anger turned away that You might comfort me."

O

Sin (pursuing evil and neglecting good) angers God, but there are also powerful riptides of other emotions. He grieves the good we both lose when I sin. He longs to heal and comfort me, too. Being love, He expresses His anger in productive ways: He shed His blood to purge our consciences from dead works so we could be comforted by serving Him, the only living God (Hebrews 9:14).

A

I admit that I get angry, too. Sometimes, but probably not always for pure motives, though. Part of the confusion it causes me is the cross-currents of thwarted selfishness, the loss of expectations, and the dread of a less controllable future. I know I want to be more God-like. I aim to fearlessly and honestly own my emotions, allowing them to motivate me into deeds of righteousness (living works) instead of dead works.

P

Wow, Lord! I'm amazed all over again whenever I receive Your comfort, knowing that You owned a righteous anger towards me but You converted it (by means of the cross) into mercy and ever-flowing comfort. Wow! all over again...and thank You!