"Sometimes, when we are discouraged by a difficult situation, anger does seem helpful, appearing to bring more energy, confidence and determination. And while it is true that anger brings extra energy, it eclipses the best part of our brain: its rationality. So the energy of anger is almost always unreliable. It can cause an immense amount of destructive, unfortunate behavior."— The Dalai Lama
I have often been mislead by my own anger or my friends' anger and thought to myself: "Hey, it's better than depression!"
My bad.
I suppose it's always better to sit and ponder something than it is to react without thinking. Always! But funny how when you're in reaction mode, it seems so brilliant and empowering...
Oh snap!
1 comment:
This topic hits close to home for me. Anger consumes me at times, when really, the things I blow up about aren't that big of a deal in the large scheme of things. (The kids pushing my buttons constantly, poor drivers, and inconsiderate people.)
But what is it about anger that makes me feel so in control at times and so out of control at other times?
As much as I'd like to say I follow the Good Word on this, I've found this as one of the areas where I think I sin most frequently.
Not all anger is sin... but I'm talking about the anger that is sin (when I speak horribly to people and when I leave people devastated because of my actions, when I hold it in only to explode later, and when I hold grudges).
Here's what the Bible says that I need to memorize, but haven't yet. Maybe that will help me with my anger issues.
Romans 12:19 (NIV)
19 Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord.
Ephesians 4:26–27 (NIV)
26 “In your anger do not sin”: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, 27 and do not give the devil a foothold.
Ephesians 4:29 (NIV)
29 Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.
Ephesians 4:31–32 (NIV)
31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. 32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
Proverbs 15:1 (NIV)
A gentle answer turns away wrath,
but a harsh word stirs up anger.
James 1:20 (NIV)
20 for man’s anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires.
Thank you for bringing this topic up that so many of us struggle with.
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