Rage!

1 Samuel 16:1-13 (NRSV) - The Lord does not see as mortals see; they look on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.

If you could look into the hearts of a normal person vs. a person with a mental illness, I think that you would see pretty much the same thing. Mentally ill people are often quick to express their nastiness. But you will find nasty thoughts and feelings in the hearts of normal people too. We don't behave better because our hearts are better. We behave better simply because our self-control is better. Our hearts are just as bad. That's what Romans chapter 2 is all about.

When someone was on a rage, I felt superior because I was able to stay calm and say nothing. But Holy Spirit zapped me about my thoughts.

"Her sarcasm is nasty!"

Sarcasm is always out of place.

"I'm glad that I don't speak like that."

You don't say it. But you think it! It ALL needs to come out !!!

Mentally ill people have dirty hearts and express it. Normal people have dirty hearts and suppress it. But in God's eyes, neither is acceptable. We may present a good front to others, particularly in public. But God hears everything, sees everything, and knows our inmost thoughts, motives, and desires. Even for the best of us, what a mess! Nothing is hidden from God. For Him, it all plays on the "Big Screen." Self-control is a good start, but it is still far, far below God's standard. He is not looking for outward behavior modification. He is looking for clean hearts that are free from negative thoughts and desires. And if we are God's children, that is who we will someday be!