While it may be initially impossible to prevent anger from surfacing, it is possible to refrain from expressing it in words and behaviors. Submitting to anger implies a loss of control when self-control is desperately needed. Anger limits our reasoning ability that is designed to prevent us from submitting to bad choices.
Submitting is a natural reaction. We submit to hunger, to rules for remaining employed, to biblical guidelines securing our relationships with the Lord God and society. You are not required to submit to anger, as anger creates hostility in others which can be to your detriment.
Empathy is by far the most difficult response to exhibit toward someone who is expressing anger. Empathy coupled with understanding will override the impulse to react with anger. Empathy helps you see things from God’s perspective. Ask yourself, “How does God view this situation and how is he now reacting?
But you, Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God,
slow to anger and abundant in mercy and truth.
~Psalm 86:15 New American Standard Bible
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