Anger is defined as an emotion connected to ones psychological interpretation as a result of having hurt; amiss or rejected that may push a person to get revenge. Other reference defines anger as an emotional condition that may vary in the level of anger from mild irritation to an extreme anger.
As human as we are, we get mad when we hear or see any negative doings against us, we get hurt, and we are tempted to revenge in any ways. Despite the fact that anger is a natural feeling that all human experienced, we must know and understand that it does not only affect the people around us, but to a great extent it affect ourselves, as well.
Truth about Anger:
- Anger is unacceptable before God because we cannot walk with Him and follow his steps if our heart is filled with anger. It also encourages us to a more anger inviting us to do evil deeds which God does not want us to do.
James 1:19-20
“This you know, my beloved brethren. But let everyone be quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to anger; for the anger of man does not achieve the righteousness of God.”
Proverbs 29:22
“A man of wrath stirs up strife, and one given to anger causes much transgression.”
- Anger becomes addictive wherein angry people don’t simply change, but sometimes they would nurture it and becomes more aggressive to revenge.
Some people might say that releasing their stored feelings through anger is a great way to feel good and manage their temper. However, if releasing this negative emotion through anger brings about a feeling of satisfaction and relief, anger will become a habit and addiction will grow.
- Anger leads to aggression and stressful situations. Apart from psychological effects, too much anger can also give physical effects such as chest pain, head ache, migraine, high blood pressure, and the like.
These could be avoided if an angry person is willing to accept Christ in His heart and recognize the Spirit of Reconciliation.
Matthew 5:25
New International Version (NIV)
25 “Settle matters quickly with your adversary who is taking you to court. Do it while you are still together on the way, or your adversary may hand you over to the judge, and the judge may hand you over to the officer, and you may be thrown into prison.
4. Anger always needs reconciliation as Christ teaches us to reconcile. Do not let anger damaged your relationship with anyone. Worst things can be avoided if we are eager to accept Christ in our heart. Make sure to reconcile with your enemy before we go to our spiritual lives.
Matthew 5:23-24
New International Version (NIV)
23 “Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, 24 leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift.
- Anger needs restoration. God does not want us to harm others because of our anger. He wants us to follow his steps and restore our broken relationship with our enemies.
A person who does not enjoy a loving relationship with other people and nurture bitterness and anger has an angry spirit. People with angry spirit and bitter attitude are more likely have problems with his interpersonal relationship.
If we allow Christ to enter our heart, we cannot bear anger in our lives. Anger does not bring any positive things but physical, emotional and social damages. We must be aware that all the possible consequences that anger may bring is against the commandments of God.
Anger is a natural emotion, but then this must be overcome by the power of God’s spirit. Here are the biblical steps to overcome anger:
- Face the real issues
Ask yourself what cause you to get mad and nurture your anger. We must acknowledge the cause of our anger in order to overcome this negative emotion. As a matter of fact, it is our pride that hinders us to accept our fault and acknowledge reconciliation.
- Deal with your anger and acknowledge your past anger
Confess and acknowledge all your angers, especially your anger in the past. Encourage yourself to ask forgiveness to anyone whom you have hurt and learn to mend your broken relationship. Do not tolerate anger dwells in your heart because it will not accomplish the righteousness of God.
- Let the stronghold of anger comes to an end: Break off your anger and break into forgiveness and kindness
We cannot live happily if our life is full of bitterness and anger. If we have not given up our past sins and tried to overcome anger, we cannot have peace and fullness of love unless we replace our angry spirit to a loving spirit.
Ephesians 4:31
“Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice.
And be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you.”
- Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry. (Ephesians 4:26)
Unsettled anger becomes wrath if we will allow our angry spirit to rule our heart and mind. God commands us to heighten the value of resolving quarrels before we sleep.
