James 1:20

Wrath. Or, “anger.” Anger is especially inappropriate and harmful when brought into a religious controversy. An angry zeal for the cause of Christ does not recommend a person as being acquainted with the spirit of Christ. It is still true that “a kind, courteous Christian is the most powerful argument that can be produced in favor of Christianity” (GW 122).

Righteousness of God. The character of a loving Father is not reflected in a hasty-tempered church member. This declaration is an understatement of a truth known by all, that wrath actively produces the opposite of righteousness. It does not induce us to embrace truth, but leads us to oppose. It does not heal, but hurts.