Unexpressed Energy
Today's Scripture
"People with understanding control their anger; a hot temper shows great foolishness." - (Proverbs 14:29 NLT)
Thoughts for Today
Anger is physiological. Think about what often happens to our body when we are angry: facial expressions change, heart rate increases, arms tremble, lips tighten, voice is raised, fists clench. We may even grind our teeth.
Dr. Richard D. Dobbins defines anger as "unexpressed energy." A physiological response occurs when "a biochemical reaction is triggered which results in the creation of unusual amounts of energy for your use in facing a perceived threat."
Consider this . . .
You become angry. That anger creates pent-up energy that has to go somewhere. At this point, you feel angry, but you've not yet done anything about the anger. You have not sinned . . . yet.
You are at a crossroads. You must choose how to use that energy. Will you use it to do something positive? It can be a trigger to help you realize you need to work on that relationship or an attitude. Or you can choose to let the anger take control and use the energy in destructive ways. At this point, you have chosen the sinful path.
Because anger is often connected to sinful thoughts or actions, we may think if we simply feel angry, we have sinned. However, it's what we choose to do with the anger that determines whether it is sinful. God wants us to use our emotional energy for good, but it's our choice.
Father, help me to pray and think before I act on my anger. Help me to choose positive ways to release the energy it gives me. 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.
PO Box 22127 ~ Chattanooga, Tennessee 37421 ~ 423-899-4770
© Living Free 2007. Living Free is a registered trademark. Living Free Every Day devotionals may be reproduced for personal use. When reproduced to share with others, please acknowledge the source as Living Free, Chattanooga, TN. Must have written permission to use in any format to be sold. Permission may be requested by sending e-mail to info@LivingFree.org.