"Be angry, and do not sin": do not let the sun go down on your wrath, nor give place to the devil.
Ephesians 4:26-27
When rock climbers are ascending the sheer face of a mountain, they look for the tiniest place to lodge their toes—a place that gives them the opportunity to make progress. Climbers refer to such places—a ledge, crack, or outcrop—as a foothold.
Recommended Reading:
Psalm 4:4
Place, opportunity, and foothold are all English words used to translate Greek topos in Ephesians 4:27: "Nor give place [opportunity/foothold] to the devil." Foothold calls to mind the expression, "Get a foot in the door"—when someone takes advantage of an opportunity for advancement. What is Paul discussing? How might we give the devil an opportunity for advancement in our life? By not dealing with anger quickly or by letting anger fester into bitterness. That's why Paul says to deal with unrighteous anger by the end of the day. Jesus expressed righteous anger on occasion when defending God but never unrighteous anger. Unrighteous anger can only lead to sin if not resolved.
Unrighteous anger is self-centered; forgiveness is others-centered. When we forgive, we take away the devil's opportunity to stir up trouble.
He who can suppress a moment's anger may prevent a day of sorrow.
