What is the Result of your Anger?

Why Are You So Mad?, a devotional by Gregg Matte on Youversion

In the past few days, we have seen that getting angry is a common human reaction. We have considered that the Bible warns us regarding the root of the problem, the reason behind anger that triggers this emotion. Today, we are going to reflect on the second question we should ask ourselves when considering if our anger is sin. What has resulted from our anger? Hurt or help?  

When anger is the result of God’s purposes being challenged, the result of it will be to help. When William Wilberforce saw how slaves were being treated, his anger resulted in the abolishment of the slave trade in the United Kingdom. Jesus got angry when He saw that the Pharisees lacked compassion for someone in need. His anger resulted in a leper being healed. He flipped the tables in the temple because His house had become a market instead of being a house of prayer. When God’s intent (purpose) was being challenged, Jesus’ anger resulted in the reestablishment of God’s original purpose, in help for those in need.

On the contrary, when anger is the result of our preferences or the expression of hurt and pain, we will end up making matters worse. Either our health or our relationships will get hurt. Long-term anger has been linked to: high blood pressure, heart conditions, skin disorders, and digestive problems. 

Behind the reason (why) and the result (what) of our anger, there is always a who (the recipient of our fury), and most of the time they are disconnected. For example, you are mad at your boss, and your kids get unjustly reprimanded when you arrive home. When we do not address the root of the problem and deal with it as soon as possible, it results in two issues instead of just one. One problem because of the wrong why (the cause), and another problem with the who (the recipient of our anger, our health or our relationships). 

The Bible clearly states that “… human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires” (James 1:20). We must pay attention to the fruit of our anger. If it does not result in us helping others, then we must address it “before the sun goes down.” Our God is more than willing to forgive us and purify us from all unrighteousness (1 John1:9). 

Thought of the Day

When I get angry, I need to ask myself, “What is the result of my anger? Hurt or help?”

Be angry, and do not sin; ponder in your own hearts on your beds, and be silent. Selah

Psalm 4:4

Good sense makes one slow to anger, and it is his glory to overlook an offense.

Proverbs 19:11

Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God. Therefore put away all filthiness and rampant wickedness and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls.

James 1:19‭-‬21

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

1 John 1:9