If we really examine our behavior and the motives behind them, we will see when it comes to substance abuse we usually “medicate” in order to regulate our emotions. Anger is one of the most volital emotions we have. We need to be mature about our anger and not let our immaturity get the best of us.
Mature Anger
TODAY’S VERSE
“Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.”
James 1:19 (NIV)
“Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice.”
Ephesians 4:31 (NIV)
TODAY’S THOUGHT
So often we use these passages to beat ourself up with. We interpret as if it said, “Do not be angry” and then berate ourself and bury our feelings. However, if we read these passages we will see that our goal should not be ridding ourself of anger but rather, be mature about what angers us. Mature anger looks at the problem and expresses itself with a solution as its goal. It is slow to speak, slow to anger and quick to listen. On the other hand, immature anger looks at the person involved and expresses itself with bitterness, rage, brawling, slander and malice. Paul insists that we rid ourself of immature anger. Today, when your anger alerts you to a potential negative situation, be slow to react. Assess the problem and ask God what it is He would have you to do. Let your anger be mature.
TODAY’S PRAYER
Father, thank You that You can help me be mature with my anger. Help me focus on solutions and not bitterness, rage, fighting, slander or malice. Help me express anger in a way that honors you.
AMEN
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January 6, 2009 at 4:54 am
Chaz
Ya, I can relate.
I recall what I used to refer to as the “free at last” feeling when booze hit my system. When the pain and anxiety ceased even if just a little. When the busy train station in my head went a little quieter.
For me, it was so much about self-medicating. Today, while sober, I feel the pain full-on. Thats ok because I have learned that it wont kill me. Meaning pain from emotionally upsetting situations.
And like the passages you mention, I am learning slowly to improve on how I let the hurts affect me. With new understanding and thinking habits, I do not as often get angry at dumb stuff. Like traffic.
Yet, we are all works in process.
Great post.
Ciao.
Chaz