“Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, and give no opportunity to the devil” (Eph. 4:26-27) All of us deal with anger that challenges our lives and relationships daily. I think it is important to note that the Bible doesn’t label the emotion of anger a sin, but it says “Be angry.” For too many of us we focus on the last part of that verse and take it to mean that we should shut down our emotions and not feel anything. But doing this often creates larger problems for us in unintended ways. Especially those of us who have been traumatized or hurt in ways that we still don’t fully understand, would be be helped in feeling and expressing our anger in healthy ways.
Anger is a natural emotion that can be triggered by a wide range of situations, from minor annoyances to major injustices. While it is normal to feel angry at times, unresolved anger can be harmful to both the person experiencing it and those around them. In order to effectively deal with unresolved anger, it is important to understand the underlying causes and to develop healthy coping mechanisms.
One of the first steps in dealing with unresolved anger is to identify the source of the anger. This may involve examining past experiences and relationships, as well as current stressors and triggers. Understanding the root cause of the anger can help to put the anger into perspective and to develop strategies for addressing it.
Another important step in dealing with unresolved anger is to learn how to express it in a healthy way. This may involve learning how to communicate effectively with others, setting boundaries, and practicing self-care. For example, instead of bottling up anger and lashing out at others, it may be more effective to take a step back, take a deep breath, and calmly express how one feels.
One way to express anger in a healthy way is through journaling. Writing down one’s feelings can help to release pent-up emotions and to gain a better understanding of the causes of the anger. Additionally, it can be helpful to talk to a therapist or counselor about the anger, as they can provide support and guidance in developing coping mechanisms.
Another way to deal with unresolved anger is to engage in activities that promote relaxation and mindfulness. This can include practices such as yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises, which can help to calm the mind and body and to reduce feelings of anger and stress.
Physical exercise can also be a great way to deal with unresolved anger. Engaging in regular physical activity, such as running or weightlifting, can release endorphins, which are chemicals in the brain that promote feelings of well-being and happiness. Additionally, physical activity can help to reduce stress and to improve overall physical and mental health.
It’s also important to have a positive support system. Surrounding oneself with friends and family who are understanding and supportive can provide a sense of belonging and help to put the anger into perspective.
Dealing with unresolved anger requires understanding the underlying causes, expressing it in a healthy way, engaging in activities that promote relaxation and mindfulness, and having a positive support system. It may also be helpful to seek professional help to gain a better understanding of the causes of the anger and to develop effective coping mechanisms. Remember that unresolved anger can be harmful, so it’s important to address it in a timely manner, before it escalates into something more serious.
“Be angry” may be one of the least followed biblical commands. But it is a command nevertheless and we should find ways to feel and express anger so as not to hurt others, especially ourselves.
Scot Loyd 