Managing Anger

In church yesterday we learned what to do when we’re angry at God. Let’s face it, we are all human and sometimes things just don’t go the way we want them to. We get angry…with ourselves, our loved ones, and even with God. This really made me think about how much of a part we play on the narrative that we tell ourselves concerning who’s to blame for the way we feel.

My first inclination is always to hold onto my feelings and ruminate. I play the script over and over in my head…what was said to make me angry…why it was wrong…how I reacted…how I should have responded…and ultimately why the situation is just not my fault. The other person (or persons) are always to blame. I am certainly never in the wrong. Can anyone else relate? Is it just me? Then when I see the person (or persons) again, I’m still harboring that anger and feeling obligated to treat them in a certain way so that they know they did me wrong. That is absolutely not helpful in resolving issues but in the heat of the moment it’s easy to fall into that comfort zone.

So I decided to take self-inventory and actually heed the lessons from my pastor. Take time to cool off first. God understands exactly how you feel but it’s important to tell Him anyway. Then pray about the situation. Prayer changes you, not Him. Look to His word for guidance and ask for help in implementing what you read.

That cooling off period will work wonders in helping you see clearly and think soberly. That will definitely help to restore your joy! Be well, my friends!