Anger Becomes Your Servant
Today's Scripture
Some people make cutting remarks, but the words of the wise bring healing. Proverbs 12:18 NLT
Thoughts for Today
In determining your course of action in responding to someone who has made you angry, remember to avoid the extremes that could be harmful: attacking, withdrawing and clamming up, giving in, or denying that anger is present.
If you care for someone or some situation, you will often have to choose action that requires some kind of confrontation. David Augsburger in his book, Caring Enough to Confront, calls this "truthing it in love." You may need to be gentle and private or strong and direct—whatever is needed to help bring a resolution to the conflict.
In this process of "truthing it in love," be sure to do the following:
- Inform about the issue
- Show your feelings appropriately
- Speak the truth in love
Consider this…
With God's help, carefully choose the proper response, words, action, and what to say or not to say to bring some resolution and closure to the issue. Develop a list of responses and actions that work for you and for the best for other people. It is at this level that anger becomes your servant, rather than your master, and can be productive.
Father, I need your guidance and strength to resolve this conflict. Help me to speak the truth in love, to be wise in this confrontation. I ask for healing and restoration in this relationship. In Jesus' name …
These thoughts were drawn from…
Anger: Our Master or Our Servant by Larry Heath. This study offers a clear explanation of anger, what causes it, and how to recognize when you are sinning with anger. It not only ministers to church members, but serves as a powerful evangelistic tool. Note: This curriculum was written especially for small groups and we encourage people to use it that way. However, it can also be used effectively as a personal study for individuals or couples.
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