Good Sabbath to Everyone,

PSALM 4:4 - Be angry, and do not sin. Meditate within your heart on your bed, and be still. The Apostle Paul referenced this scripture in his letter to the Ephesians as he was instructing them not to grieve the Spirit..

EPHESIANS 4: 26 - Be angry, and do not sin. (He goes on to make this scripture a little more personal), do not let the sun go down on your wrath, nor give place to the devil.

Jesus Christ said in Matthew 24:12  And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold.

The members of the body of Jesus Christ are soon to come together to keep the Passover (a memorial of the suffering and death of Jesus Christ).  As scripture tells us we do this in remembrance of the beating and crucifixion of our Lord and Savior. (1 Corinthians 11:24)

Anger is a powerful emotion that is being openly expressed by more and more people all around the world. We know what goes on in the world also goes on in the Church of God.

The difference for God's people is that God has opened our minds to be on guard and prepared to defend ourselves against negative emotions like anger. Using the Holy Spirit of God is what strengthens us.

EPHESIANS 6: 13 - 18 - Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. 

Gird our waist with truth by putting on the breastplate of righteousness, Shod our feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace, taking the shield of faith to stop the fiery darts thrown by the wicked one, wearing the helmet of salvation, as we carry the sword of the Spirit which is the word of God, praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all saints.

The Passover service has such a deep spiritual meaning for each of us. I pray that each one of us will think about the sacrifice Jesus made for us. If we are angry with someone, if we haven't forgiven someone, if we think we may have offended a brother or sister in the church there is still time before the Passover to make things right.

I know that God's church is filled with loving, compassionate, and forgiving people. This is a good time to express our love toward God the Father, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, and each other.

Have a restful Sabbath,

Mike