Unpacking Anger: A Christian Perspective
Anger is a universal human emotion, and Christians are no exception. For a long time, I struggled with the idea that anger had no place in a Christian’s life. However, a closer look at the Bible reveals that anger is not only acknowledged but also addressed in numerous passages.
The Prevalence of Anger
With over 113 references to the word “angry” in the Bible, it’s clear that anger is a common experience. But what does God say about it? Rather than condemning anger outright, He offers guidance on how to manage it in a way that honors Him.
Owning Up to Anger
The first step in dealing with anger is to acknowledge it. Saying “I am angry” is a crucial step towards processing and resolving the emotion. However, it’s equally important to seek a solution and avoid letting anger simmer beneath the surface.
The Dangers of Unaddressed Anger
When we fail to confront our anger, we create an opportunity for the Devil to gain a foothold in our lives. This is a sobering reminder that unaddressed anger can have spiritual consequences. Moreover, stuffing our anger can lead to unhealthy relationships and unresolved conflicts.
A God Who Gets Angry
Interestingly, the Bible also reveals that God gets angry. Micah 7:18 describes God as a merciful deity who forgives sin and shows mercy to those who transgress against Him. While God’s anger is not perpetual, ours often is. This presents a challenge for us as Christians: to emulate God’s mercy and forgiveness towards those who anger us.
Seeking Mercy and Forgiveness
As we navigate our own anger, let us remember to seek mercy and forgiveness from God and from those we may have hurt. By doing so, we can break free from the cycle of anger and resentment, and instead, choose to show mercy and compassion to others.
A Prayer for Mercy
Father God, thank you for your mercy towards us. Help us to show mercy to those who anger us. Remind us not to hold on to our anger, but to give it to you. Amen.
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