December 10 • Integrating Anger

Experiencing anger is part of being human. Our anger can reveal what’s most important to us. Oftentimes, it betrays our own selfishness, pride, or insecurity. But if you pay closer attention to yourself, you may see glimpses of holiness hidden in your anger. Be angry and do not sin. Ponder in your own hearts on your beds, and be silent [Psalm 4].

 Anger is a pathway to experience the inner workings of God. Pay attention to your anger, because even God gets angry. The anger of the Lord was kindled [Exodus 3] when someone tried to get out of God’s calling for them. Zeal for your house consumes me [Psalm 69] described Jesus’ anger toward those who tried to turn God’s house into an opportunity to make money. Our anger can be led astray by our will and desires. But God’s anger leads to righteousness: the wrongs are made right.  

 Integrate your anger. Wait in your anger. Be quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to anger, for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God. [James 1] Left to your anger, things can easily be made worse. If you ignore your anger, you may miss doing what is right and good. If you allow your anger to burn unchecked, it may destroy you or your relationships. Allow anger to be changed into a burning desire to pursue what God wants and eliminate what is wrong in you.