Why are we so easily angered?
Anger can be good for us when it’s a protest against mistreatment in an abusive or threatening situation, or when it motivates us to seek safety from danger.
But we’re not always good managers of our anger. We feel threatened when we don’t need to be. We get emotionally worked up over mild grievances that don’t deserve a response. We use a fire hose to put out a match.
Even Christians, who believe in the fruit of the Spirit, get upset with the guy that cuts us off on the highway, or irritated when something doesn’t go our way, or frustrated when we feel like we’re not getting what we deserve.
Well-known radio personality Brant Hansen says there is no good scriptural argument for reacting in anger out of a sense of entitlement, selfishness, or pride. Colossians 3:8 says, “But now you must put them all away: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and obscene talk from your mouth.”
We’re called to come against injustice, but we can’t do that effectively when our minds are clouded by unrighteous anger. Military, police officers, and first responders are effective because they remain in control of themselves and take clear, decisive action.
We face a similar challenge in our everyday lives – striving to bring our emotions under submission through God’s grace and to exemplify God’s love even in the midst of frustrating circumstances.
How can we all do that better?
Author Brant Hansen is with us on our Focus on the Family Broadcast “Letting Go of Offenses” to share memorable stories and profound insights about letting go of our anger even when it’s hard to do.
Brant is well known for his unique and humorous syndicated radio broadcast. Join us for our conversation with him on your local radio station, online, on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or take us with you on our free phone app.
In the meantime, if you’re struggling with anger that you just can’t shake, call us. We’ve got caring Christian counselors who can connect with you and direct you to helpful resources. Our number is 1-800-A-FAMILY (232-6459).
And if the Focus on the Family Broadcast is helping you in your spiritual growth and forming you into a better person in Christ, I’d like to extend an invitation for you to become a special partner with us through our monthly “Friends of Focus on the Family” program. When you do, I’ll send you a copy of Brant Hansen’s excellent book, Unoffendable: How Just One Change Can Make All of Life Better as a way of saying thank you for touching others with the love of Christ. You’ll also receive member-exclusive benefits. To make your pledge, or for more information, click here.
Thank you for your prayerful and financial support.
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