Is Anger a Four-lettered Word?
When you think of the emotion of anger, what comes to mind? What words would you use to describe anger? In our society, anger is often thought of as bad, an emotion we shouldn’t have. Yet, we do get angry, don’t we? Does that mean we are bad?
I was surprised to learn that from Genesis 4:5-Revelation 19:15, anger is the second most frequently mentioned emotion, second only to love. In the Old Testament anger is mentioned 455 times; 375 refer to God’s anger. Since we are made in God’s image, we will experience anger, because God experiences anger. Anger is not evil, it’s an emotion. However, it is one of the most powerful and controlling of all the emotions, and when not properly understood and dealt with, it is also one of the most damaging…
Anger can be defined as a strong feeling of irritation or displeasure. Anger is often a warning light, alerting us that something is wrong. It can be a trigger to get us to stop and assess what is happening, to see if there is some action we need to take. Perhaps there is an injustice we need to help correct and anger give us the motivation and energy to get involved. Other times, anger is a trigger of our own selfishness and self-centeredness. It can be a reminder that the world doesn’t revolve around us, which is good. We can use that energy to seek God to help us overcome our sinfulness.
Scripture tells us to “be angry, but do not sin.” (Eph 4:26) So how do we live that out? First, recognize that you are angry, admit it and accept responsibility for it, to God, others and yourself. Anger is a secondary emotion. Often the true emotion hidden behind the anger is hurt-something that happened in the past, or frustration-something happening in the present, or fear-anticipating something happening in the future.
Once you have admitted your anger, take a good look at the anger, process it. What caused you to be angry? Did someone sin against you, or are you in sin? Ask God to help you determine the root of the anger.
Finally, express it. Bottling anger doesn’t work, it will come out eventually. It is better to express anger when you have assessed the “why” and worked through the emotion. Find constructive ways to express what is going on inside you. Address the issue with yourself or others in a kind and compassionate way.
Are you controlling you anger, or is your anger controlling you? If you aren’t sure, ask your friends, spouse, children, or someone close to you. If you find anger is an emotion you are struggling to deal with, seeking help is wise. Someone trained in helping people get a handle on their response to anger can be very helpful. Christ came to set us free. We don’t have to live in bondage to anything…including the emotion of anger.
Pastor Elaine
(Information for this blog adapted from the DVD An Angry Spirit: Seeing Red in Marriage)
