Counsels on Relationships

Counsel #8 — The Anger Trap

Picture: Counsel #8 — The Anger Trap CR 10.1

Imagine spending months studying for one of the most difficult exams of your life — an exam that will determine whether you’ll become a doctor, lawyer, or dentist. Preparation has drained you, and you can’t imagine anything harder than this situation. CR 10.2

But did you know, managing anger has proven to be one of the most difficult “tests” most people face? In life, it’s easy to lash out in frustration when emotions get overwhelming, and reacting in anger is the first response most people cling to when dealing with conflict or discomfort. The problem with anger isn’t feeling the emotion itself — it’s human to feel in response to certain situations. The real issue comes when we feel angry and act on that anger inappropriately, opening the door to much bigger issues like physical altercations or broken relationships. Journaling, exercising, and talking to someone about your emotions can help manage anger, but only God can transform the human heart and mind. If you want to stop being angry all the time, invite God into your healing process and trust Him as He rebuilds and renews your heart, and gives you new reactions.¹ CR 10.3

“An angry person stirs up conflict, and a hot-tempered person commits many sins.” Proverbs 29:22 NIV CR 10.4

“When you feel an angry spirit arising, take firm hold of Jesus Christ by faith.” Ellen White in Our High Calling, p. 235 CR 10.5

Reflect: Do you get angry easily? How do you react to that anger? CR 10.6