Anger is one of the most misunderstood emotions that we will face in life. As the girls are taught at Mercy, anger is a secondary emotion. There is something much deeper at the root of it all. Many people stay bound to anger never realizing that the true cause stems from issues such as:

  • Rejection
  • Fear
  • Unhealed hurt
  • Neglect
  • Disappointment

Ephesians 4 reminds us that we are to “Be angry and sin not.” The bible doesn’t ignore that anger is a real emotion that we will face, but how we manage that emotion matters.

We have two options when anger arises, we can submit it to God and allow Him to reveal to us the why behind the what or we can allow anger to control, ultimately producing a heart of resentment and bitterness. Unmanaged anger becomes a prison to us but forgiveness sets us free. Colossians says “Forgive as the Lord has forgiven you.” Anger can not comprehend forgiveness.

The following story of a recent Mercy graduate shows what happens to anger when it is laid at the feet of Jesus.

“When I walked through the doors of Mercy, my heart was full of hate. I hated the world around me, the people who so desperately tried to help me, I hated myself, and I hated God.

I was so angry and I didn’t know how to let it go.

But God.

The love that was poured out by the staff at Mercy slowly chipped away at me. I eventually was no longer angry. They loved through my anger and pointed me to the One who wanted to take that hatred and darkness and turn it into a flame of righteous fury that would light the path ahead.

God replaced my hatred with an overwhelming love and compassion for others and Himself. I no longer hated the person I saw in the mirror every day. I can only say that it was Jesus. Jesus softened my heart and showed me that world in color again. He continues to remind me how I am a beautiful new creation and that

His blood has wiped away my tears.

Today, I can only describe my heart as on fire. On fire for Jesus and to share the hope and freedom that I have found in Him. He truly is a good God. He is no respecter of persons.

If he can do it for me. He will do it for you, too.”

-E.V.

Mercy Multiplied offers programs and resources that help people find freedom in Christ. Find out more at https://mercymultiplied.com/.

Are you feeling angry? Check out the free Keys to Freedom Teaching Series, and watch the bonus video called Anger at God.

Another great resource is our MercyTalk Podcast. Check out episode 195 | From Anger at God to Intimacy with God.