Anger is Fierce

Anger is a fierce emotion. Sometimes it simmers, just underneath the surface of our conscious thoughts and feelings. Other times it lies in wait, masquerading as sadness or fear. Often, though, it comes shooting out with both the force and speed of a rocket launched into space. As it tears across our minds and propels outward, it leaves destruction in its wake.

Suddenly I become laser focused on the object of my anger. Violent, nasty thoughts take up residence in my brain. Those thoughts plant themselves firmly in the soil and prepare to do battle. They gain strength from the power of the perceived wrong done unto me.

Ready to strike at any given moment, they plan the annihilation of what created them. Where I once was fairly mild-mannered and kind, I am now foaming at the mouth, determined to inflict the same level of pain that I feel.

In my own strength, I promise I would do untold damage. In my own strength, I would feed those thoughts and lash out. In my own strength, I would unleash immeasurable amounts of hurt and believe the entire time that I had every right to do so.

But, God.

He knew. He knew that people would hurt other people. He knew that people would misunderstand each other. He knew that our feelings would try to control our actions. He knew that sometimes we would give into those feelings and do horrible things. So, He made a way. He sent Jesus to make atonement for all the times I have allowed my actions to separate me from Him. Through the power of His resurrection, the Holy Spirit came to live inside me and give me options other than lashing out. It’s my job to allow Him to work.

Now, when that red-hot sensation flashes through my heart and my mind, I can choose not to act like a fool. I can choose to keep my mouth shut. I can also choose not to allow people who continually hurt me to remain a part of my life. This isn’t about blindly sitting back and allowing others to repeatedly attack us. This is about us, using the immense power available to us, not to do the things that make us feel shame and regret.

Anger is a fierce emotion and it will destroy us if we let it. The good news is that Jesus wins. Always. And we can choose to let His peace and His victory rule over our hearts and minds. Then we become victors as well.