How Can You Manage Out-of-Bounds Anger?

How should you respond to someone who is determined to get revenge for pain and suffering caused by another person’s deliberate acts of aggression? Have you found it next to impossible to communicate with a person who is determined to get revenge?

I read about a soldier who was wounded by a sniper. He became so angry, he impulsively stood up and began shooting erratically to get revenge. He was then killed by the sniper. Although this is an unusual situation, out-of-control anger creates vulnerabilities that often prove to be regrettable.

If you’re the recipient of someone’s anger, if possible go and make amends to that person. Making amends includes correcting inappropriate behavior and apologizing. Micah 6:8 points out what is required in making things right. “Be fair, just, and merciful, and walk humbly with God.” While this is difficult, the Lord God will give you courage and strength to do it. 

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But you, Lord our God, are compassionate and forgiving, although we have rebelled against you.

~Daniel 9:9 God’s Word Translation

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Rein In Reactive Anger

The notion that anger is a realistic force in everyone's life is undeniable. For some, anger may be felt and aired without violence. Many people view anger as unhealthy and believe it must be controlled and subdued regardless of the situation or issue. Most people believe anger can be expressed, but within acceptable limits, to communicate disagreement.   

Reactive anger is expressed in response to being emotionally wounded or threatened. This type of anger is vented impulsively. Road rage is an example of reactive anger. Another instance is physically beating a person who is perceived as a threat. These examples portray out-of-control anger that is expressed violently. 

                                                                                   

Reactive anger can result in feeling remorse, but only after a cooling-off period. Remorse and guilt reflect the need for apologies and forgiveness. Forgiveness depends on acknowledging and resolving anger and bitterness. Begin by asking the Lord to give you the power and will to let go of the anger that is in control of you. This is entirely possible. 

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Don’t be a fool and quickly lose your temper – be sensible and patient.

~Proverbs 29:11 Contemporary English Version

An angry man does not do what is right before God.

~James 1:20 Beck – New Testament in the Language of Today