Outbursts of Wrath

The next listing in Galatians’ “works of the flesh” includes “outbursts of wrath.” The NIV translates this phrase as “fits of rage” and Barclay simply translates it as “uncontrolled temper.”

Some may simply think this is a personal problem or a bad habit, but God’s Word considers it to be an eternal problem. Our temper needs to be controlled. It is considered sinful to “fly off the handle” or “go off” on other people.

Often, one’s temper subsides as quickly as it was aroused. The one who has engaged in an “outburst of wrath” calms down and expects the receiver of his temper tantrum to forget about it too. It is not always this simple though. The unkind words, harsh actions and vile deeds of such fits can leave long-lasting scars and can harm our Christian influence. For this reason, the Spirit guided Paul to write of their danger so we might avoid the pain this sin brings.

More Works of the Flesh