Overcoming AngerUzorak

Freedom from Anger

Anger. It can become the background noise of your life, turning into bitterness, irritability, or resentment. How do you let go and find peace? Anger in and of itself isn’t wrong. But it can lead us to lash out toward others, hold on to negative thoughts, or treat people in ways they don’t deserve to be treated.

We can be set free from feeling controlled by our anger and its negative effects. We can learn to process our anger with Jesus and others and find healing as we get the help we need. How do we start?

First, name it. If you have been used to hiding your anger from others, you might need to take a hard look at the words you use to express it. Maybe you tend to say “I’m not angry; I’m annoyed.” Or, “I’m not angry; I’m frustrated.” Or, “I’m not angry; the truth is you can’t take a joke.” Or, “I’m not angry; just leave me alone.” Acknowledging anger is the first step, and if you’re reading this devotional, you’ve already begun.

Second, allow yourself to feel your anger. This is a hard step because many of us have been told that anger is sin and we have learned to shove it down. But feeling anger is a part of being a healthy human who feels other emotions like grief and sadness. We have to process our anger. This requires that we examine what we are angry about. Recalling the injustice, abuse, or neglect that sparked our anger is painful. We might wish for revenge, but God’s Word warns against this temptation. We can forgive by surrendering the wrongs done to us to God, the just Judge. This is not letting people off the hook; it’s letting God sort things out.

Third, determine what’s behind your anger so that you can address it. What fear has driven you to rely on anger? What lies have you believed? Perhaps you feel rejected, not safe, not affirmed, or invalidated. The devil is the father of lies, and you do not have to listen to him.

Fourth, process your feelings with God and others. Allow God to comfort you. Make your concerns and hurt known to Him. Safe people can help you to think about the past and the ways you grew used to employing anger as a defense. They can help you process your pain, affirm your feelings, and give you new experiences of feeling safe and accepted.

Finally, fight to believe the truth rather than lies. Instead of pouring energy into holding grudges, coming up with comebacks, and plotting revenge, seek God’s help and His Word, which is “able to build you up” (Acts 20:32). Remember that He loves you, values you, and is your Protector. You can leave unhealthy anger behind. It’s possible. You don’t have to stay angry. You can be free.

God, I believe that You can bring healing to this area of my life. Help me overcome my anger. I want to be free.

For more help and resources on overcoming emotional and mental health struggles, check out resolutionmovement.org.