How To Harness Your Anger
Set your hand on a hot stove and it won’t be too long before you get the message and pull it off. Anger can work the same way. It’s like pain. It sends a signal to our minds that something needs attention. When we get angry at a situation, a person, an injustice…whatever, the anger is telling us to pay attention.
When you sense the emotion of anger bubbling to the top, do this next time:
Ask Why you are angry. Is it a sign you haven’t gotten much sleep? Maybe anger is telling you to go to bed earlier. Is it a sign you take something seriously, like abortion or hunger or poverty? That’s a good indication of something you value.
Anger always has a reason.
Ask What to do with the anger. Lashing out at someone in blind anger is not good (I wish I could take back those times when I’ve lashed out). Getting edgy with someone because they aren’t living up to their potential is another thing. Lashing doesn’t have the good of the other person in mind. Getting edgy does. Or, if world hunger angers you, is it time to redirect your energies and personal budget to be able to do something about it?
Anger will always be a sign of needed action.
Ask When to deal with the anger. Jesus said, “Don’t let the sun go down on your anger.” (Ephesians 4). Even legitimate anger, left on the counter overnight turns into a maggot-infested attitude. Being stuck on something does neither you nor those around you any good. Instead, when anger pops up, deal with it…soon.
Anger has a short shelf life.
Jesus said, “In your anger, do not sin.” (Ephesians 4) I suppose that’s because anger is an emotion we were wired with by the Creator Himself. And God don’t make no junk. Harnessing this emotion (our only real option) will make us a better ministry leader as we seek to make a mockery of burnout.
Anger is an area that most do not see on the outside with me when it comes but it eats me up on the inside – that is unless it is a righteous anger and generally I release it in a righteous way. When it is not a righteous anger I have learned through the years to pray and lay it all down – normally I remind myself that I it is not about me and about Him.
Jim F recently posted..The Results of Revival
Jim,
Anger destroys its own container. Holding it in is like drinking poison in the morning and expecting to still go on a date with your wife in the evening.
*ain’t gowen hoppon!*
Excellent post, Scott. I’m taking notes!
Jimmy Larche recently posted..What Football Teaches Us About Leadership and Ministry
Jimmy, thanks, man. You remain on my prayer list. Hope all is well. Leave nothing on the field today.
Leaders reading in on this comment string (and I know you are): Read Jimmy’s post today:
http://www.jimmylarche.com/2011/08/789-leadership-lessons-ministry-football/