Anger is most often expressed for the purpose of hurting someone who has become a threat, either physically or emotionally. Anger can be an instantaneous reaction or it can evolve over a period of time, but when it’s expressed either aggressively or passively, the purpose is to set in motion some level of revenge.
Anger’s purpose is to punish the perpetrator for causing hurt and suffering. Anger can be destructive when it is used as a tool to dominate and control. There are, however, ways to reduce the destructive impact of this emotion. One is to take ownership of past behaviors that have offended and hurt another person.
Appropriate guilt and remorse can be the motivation for apologizing and seeking reconciliation. An apology opens the door to forgiveness and reclaiming self-respect. It’s necessary to apologize to God and to those whom you’ve offended for being self-centered. This will make things right with others and God.
Stop your anger! Turn off your wrath. Do not fret or
worry—it only leads to harm. For the wicked shall be destroyed, but those who
trust in the Lord shall be given every blessing.
~Psalm 37:8-9 The Living Bible
[Jesus said,] “But when you are praying, first forgive
anyone you are holding a grudge against, so that your Father in heaven will
forgive you your sins, too.”
~Mark 11:25 The Living Bible
___________
Subscribe to the Attitudes Answers podcast on
your favorite podcast platform to hear this and other 2-minute features 3 days
every week.
No comments:
Post a Comment