For Grappling With Anger

For Grappling with Anger

I ONCE ASKED CALLED MAGAZINE’S READERS to describe God in one word. Most of the responses were predictable: awesome, merciful, powerful. But one was surprising. At first, I stared at the word in shock. I also questioned if it was blasphemous. What did this woman mean by liable? It’s a word we use to describe someone who must answer for a wrong that’s been done. Was it okay to express such anger toward God?

The Bible teaches that it’s okay to feel angry, especially when life seems unbearable. I once met a woman who had lost her husband, son, cousin, and father-in-law—all in one day. Who would blame that poor woman for being enraged? Even Jonah was furious. “He lost his temper. He yelled at GOD” (Jonah 4:1, MSG).

God invites us to share our real emotions through prayer (while remembering that candor can be communicated with respect). Moreover, prayer isn’t only for “happy” moments; so pray out the anger that you feel.

STRENGTH IN THE WORD

“Don’t sin by letting anger control you.” Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry.

TODAY I DECLARE

God has a plan for what I’m going through.

PRAYERFUL THOUGHTS

Dear Lord,

How could you allow this to happen? Surely you knew that it would cause me great pain. Where was your mercy when I needed it? Where was your renowned and unfailing grace? Lord, I want to lean on you and trust in you—but I feel crushed, forgotten, and betrayed.

Please forgive me for my raw tone, and replace my anger with greater faith.

In Jesus’ name, amen.

KEEPSAKE

“God invites us to share our real emotions.”