“In your anger do not sin. Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry.” Ephesians 4:26

“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” Ephesians 4:32

Taboo To Grudges—For Your Sake

Raman and his older brother Nanda were good friends. They went to school together, did their homework together and played together. One day they had a disagreement that ended in a quarrel. Raman remained aloof, hurt, and bitter all day long. When Nanda wanted to make up with him, he refused to oblige. So, at bedtime, their mother reminded Raman of God’s word that admonishes us not to let the sun go down with anger in our hearts. (Eph. 4:26) The young boy seemed rather perplexed. After thinking it through for a few moments seriously, he inquired “But how can I keep the sun from going down?”

When we enter the presence of the Lord in prayer, may we come with a seeking heart, listening ears and a willing attitude to obey His word to us, regardless of the cost – pride, personal agenda, expense, convenience, time, etc.

While being prayer warriors, we must first be willing to be changed by the Spirit of God. It is indeed a fact that we cannot change the heart of another, but we must acknowledge responsibility for our own. We must be cautious not to sidestep the issue of our own attitude. We are instructed to forgive even as our Lord has forgiven us. (Eph. 4:32)

That’s right, you and I like Raman, cannot keep the sun from going down. However, we can keep it from going down on our anger. Fulfilling the requirement is entirely dependent on you and me. It demands forgiveness without withholding, meaning with absolutely nothing residual remaining whatsoever. It is a tall order and yet it is our Master’s expectation of you and me, His disciples.

Today, as we desire to grow in prayer power, let us keep in mind that every minute we choose to be angry, we lose sixty seconds of happiness! To grow to the next level in prayer, may each of us take a firm stand and say taboo to all grudges.