As a pastor and a husband, I've seen firsthand how love can turn to anger when we feel unheard. When we're not listened to, our feelings and needs are ignored, and we can become resentful and angry. It's like a slow-burning fire that can simmer beneath the surface for a long time, waiting to erupt. I've seen it in my own marriage, where Susan and I have had our fair share of disagreements and misunderstandings. But when we make the effort to listen to each other, to understand each other's perspectives, and to communicate effectively, our love and respect for each other can overcome even the toughest challenges.
The Bible teaches us that love is patient, kind, and slow to anger (1 Corinthians 13:4-5). When we're in love, we're more willing to listen, to forgive, and to understand each other's flaws and weaknesses. But when we feel unheard, our love can turn to anger, and we can become quick to speak and slow to listen. This is especially true when we're not aware of our own emotions and needs. As the Bible says, "Love keeps no record of wrongs" (1 Corinthians 13:5). When we're in love, we don't dwell on past hurts and resentments, but rather we focus on the present moment and the future we're building together.
As a father, I've also seen how anger can arise when my children feel unheard. When Joshua and Rebecca feel like their needs and feelings are being ignored, they can become angry and resentful. But when we take the time to listen to them, to understand their perspectives, and to communicate effectively, our love and respect for each other can overcome even the toughest challenges. As a pastor, I've learned that love is not just a feeling, but a choice we make every day to listen, to forgive, and to understand each other. When we choose to love, we can overcome even the most difficult emotions, including anger.