We dealt with regret yesterday. Today, we look at anger. Anger is a primal emotion, like a fire that can both fuel us and consume us. Some people take longer than others to get angry. Some people have a very high boiling point that can seem impossible to reach. Some people have a very short fuse. Some people get angry quickly and get over it quickly. Some people remain angry for a long time. Some people are always angry. You don’t say. What happens when the fire of anger does not die down?
In Psalm 4, David lamented all the idolaters and sinners around him. These people turn his glory to shame. In verse 4, we read
Tremble and do not sin; when you are on your beds, search your hearts and be silent. (verse 4)
Ephesians 4:26-27 makes it clear that it is possible to be angry and not sin.
“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 is a place for anger in our lives. When we see injustice, we need to feel for the victims. However, anger, like any strong emotions, may cloud our judgements. The human brain does not think properly when it is hot. Some people suggest counting to 3. Some people think taking a deep breath helps. I say, ask God to help. Say Lord help me, I am angry, I cannot control myself, help me, help me to stay calm, help me not to do anything I will regret later, help me not to do anything I normally won’t do.
Try to avoid kneejerk reaction when a more deliberate and calm respond is called for.
I invite you to say this prayer.
Father, we confess the anger that burns within us, the resentments we clutch. We know it harms us more than others. Help us to see forgiveness not as a gift to them, but a release for ourselves. Guide us to confront these emotions and find the strength to forgive, even when it’s hard. Help us keep our mind calm. In the name of Jesus, amen.
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