Biblical Answer

When feeling angry, the first step is to acknowledge and confront the emotion. Recognize that anger is a natural response to perceived injustice, but also be aware that it can be a devious and hard-to-find emotion. It's essential to look at oneself earlier, longer, and harder than you do other people, as anger can make it challenging to see things clearly. This requires being an expert in knowing your own heart and being willing to pray and seek God's guidance. Prayer can be a powerful tool in revealing the heart and testing one's anger. As the Lord's Prayer (Matt. 6:9-13) is meditated upon and made one's own, it is evidence of a good fight against lingering anger.

As you confront your anger, it's crucial to ask God to temper it with patience and love. This is where love and wisdom come into play, leading neither to enabling nor condemnation but rather surprising with grace and response. Anger should not be suppressed or vented, as this can lead to further damage. Instead, it's essential to keep your wits about you and not let anger last beyond the moment. This means not letting it simmer or smolder, but rather addressing it head-on and allowing it to dissipate.

In confronting anger, it's also essential to recognize that it can be a symptom of deeper issues, such as depression. Some researchers may try to link anger to other causes, but it's often a sign that God is less relevant in one's life. This can lead to feelings of emptiness, hopelessness, and disconnection from God. By acknowledging and addressing anger, one can begin to restore a healthy relationship with God and find a path towards healing and restoration. Through prayer, self-reflection, and seeking God's guidance, it's possible to navigate anger and find a more loving and patient response to life's challenges. By doing so, one can break free from the grip of anger and find a more fulfilling and purpose-driven life.