Dealing with Anger

Anger is a powerful emotion and how we deal with this emotion will impact our relationships, our attitude toward life, and even our witness before a watching world. The Bible has much to say about anger. Psalm 37:8 “Refrain from anger and turn from wrath; do not fret, it leads only to evil”. The New Testament tells us to get rid of anger. It says true love is not “easily angered”. James tells us to be slow to anger. With all these commands in mind, we may be surprised at this command from the Apostle Paul, “In your anger do not sin”: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold”.

There are times we should be angry. Anger is a valuable emotion because it alerts us to a problem that needs to be addressed. We become angry when we feel pushed aside, taken advantage of, or when we see that someone is being inconsiderate or self-absorbed. We get angry when we see destructive things happening in the life of another. We get angry when others are being mistreated.

Our real question is: How do we control our anger rather than letting it control us? Let me offer some suggestions. First, embrace your position in Christ. This may be the most helpful aspect of dealing with anger. No matter what the world says or does God sees us, knows us, and loves us. We need to remember that we ARE significant in Christ whether or not the world around us recognizes it. Second, be aware when anger begins to rise.  The first key to handling anger is to deal with it before it is out of control. Third, identify the source of your response. It is helpful to ask, “Why am I angry?” The anger that gets us into trouble is always the result of some kind of pain. Fourth, deal with anger immediately. Paul tells us not to let the sun go down on our anger. Fifth, take responsibility for your anger and choose to release it. Blaming others for our angry outbursts is easy. Finally, look for the positive. We have a choice: we can look for a fight or look for a blessing. We can focus on the faults or the gifts that reside in another. Choose to focus on positive things.

We live in an angry world. Controlling anger will enrich our relationships, will allow our families to thrive, will enhance our Christian witness, and will also help us to enjoy the journey of life. May God bless you and keep you always.

Pastor Dimas