26 be angry, and yet do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, 27 and do not give the devil an opportunity. Ephesians 4:26-27
Chances are good that you have tried to place something back into a package the way that the manufacturer had originally packed it, yet it seemed rather difficult or impossible to get everything back inside just right. I have noticed in my own life, a principle that is quite the same. Once you open the package of sin, it’s virtually impossible to package it up as if it had never been opened. I equate it to a can full of angry bees that you open up and then try to put them all back inside again, the mere fact that you are repentant of opening the can does not mean that they all go back inside peacefully.
The Apostle Paul in his epistle to the Ephesians warns them of giving the devil an opportunity for attack. Paul’s warning was in reference to unrighteous anger, yet I find the principle to be the same with sin in general. Paul was telling them that anger is a powerful emotion which must be dealt with quickly “do not let the sun go down on your anger” or else you open the door to the enemy. I submit to you that anger is not exclusive here, any temptation to sin must be shut down quickly before it gives birth to sin like James describes in chapter 1:14-15
“14 But each one is tempted when he is carried away and enticed by his own lust. 15 Then when lust has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and when sin is accomplished, it brings forth death.”
Dear Brothers and Sisters, when sin comes knocking at your door (whether it is unrighteous anger or any other) stand firm on the Word and do not let the enemy have an entry-way for attack. Remain vigilant, and act quickly!
Blessings,
Jeff