Biblical Answer

Understanding Anger and Resentment

Anger and resentment are complex emotions that can be rooted in a sense of injustice or a perceived wrong. They can also be a response to unmet expectations or a deep-seated sense of hurt. As Margaret said, "Look at yourself earlier, longer, and harder than you do other people." This means taking an honest look at our own hearts and acknowledging the role we may have played in the situation that has led to our anger. It's essential to recognize that anger can be a devious emotion, and we may be doing it without even feeling it. Praying, "Lord, search me," can help us become aware of our anger and its underlying causes.

The Root of Anger

The root of anger is not the person or situation that has wronged us, but rather our lack of trust in God. When we're angry, it's often because we don't trust God to work things out or to give us what we think we deserve. This lack of trust can lead to a sense of resentment and bitterness, which can spread to people in general. As one person said, "I grew to despise people; I wanted nothing to do with them." This kind of anger is not only hurtful to others but also to ourselves, as it can lead to a sense of isolation and disconnection. To overcome anger, we must learn to trust God and recognize that He is working everything out for our good.

Overcoming Anger

So, how can we overcome anger and resentment? The first step is to decide that we can be free from these emotions. We must quit using our story as an excuse and take responsibility for our own heart. We need to look at ourselves earlier, longer, and harder than we do other people and acknowledge our role in the situation. We must also learn to trust God and recognize that He is sovereign over all things. As the Bible says, "Love and wisdom are your guides" (Ephesians 4:2). By seeking God's guidance and wisdom, we can learn to temper our anger with patience and love, and ultimately, forgive those who have wronged us. This is not always easy, but it's essential for living a life that reflects Christian values and teachings. By trusting God and seeking His guidance, we can overcome anger and resentment and live a life of peace, joy, and love.