I'm Not Angry!: Everyone Gets Angry - Living Free - September 11
I'm Not Angry!: Everyone Gets Angry
Monday, September 11, 2023
Living Free Every Day®
A ministry of LivingFree.org
Today's Scripture
"Let us test and examine our ways." Lamentations 3:40 NLT
Thoughts for Today
Have you ever experienced marital conflict? Parenting issues? Relationship challenges? Depression? Grief? Most of us can identify with at least one or two of these or similar challenges. During the experience did you ever feel angry? Did you admit that you were angry? Often the anger is there bubbling beneath the surface, but we do not recognize it as a problem or issue. Instead, we deny or hide it.
Anger may be the most common emotion we humans share, yet most of us don't want to be examples of losing our temper. We would rather appear as controlled, calm, and peaceful. However, anger is part of being human. All of us have lost our temper and lashed out at God, ourselves, or others. Often, we hold the anger in—silently boiling in rage or frustration at someone or something. Have you ever done this? Perhaps you are reluctant to come to terms with the fact that we are people who get angry. Anger is not a passing fad or "psychological issue" that demands our brief attention. Anger is here to stay. It has been here since creation and still is—just look around.
Consider this …
Although we may not want to admit it, everyone does get angry. Think about it. Anger is one of the earliest emotions expressed by an infant. As the baby develops some security with parents, he or she will begin to display anger and rage, usually because of an unmet need. We have all seen that sweet little baby stiffen his body, take on an angry facial expression, and scream in anger. As adults, we may not display our anger in the same ways a baby does. Sometimes we may verbalize or lash out in some way, but often we will deny the anger—even to ourselves.
How about you? Are you angry about something? Today's scripture calls us to "test and examine our ways." Are you willing to do that? You must recognize and admit your anger before you can begin to deal with it.
Father, if I'm going to be honest with you—and with myself—I must confess I have been harboring anger. Forgive me for not admitting it sooner. Help me understand the source of my anger and give me wisdom about how to deal with it. In Jesus' name . . .
These thoughts were drawn from … Anger: Our Master or Our Servant by Larry Heath. This study offers a clear explanation of anger, what causes it, and how to recognize when you are sinning with anger. It not only ministers to church members but serves as a powerful evangelistic tool. Note: This curriculum was written especially for small groups and we encourage people to use it that way. However, it can also be used effectively as a personal study for individuals or couples.
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