Do We Need Anger Management?

Anger management – that elusive skill we all think we have until someone cuts us off in traffic. Road rage, flipping out, losing our cool – it’s like a daily soap opera on our highways.

But let’s not kid ourselves; anger isn’t just for the politicians or those high-profile leaders we see ranting on TV. Even us everyday, well-meaning folks have our moments.

Take, for instance, when I am cut off in traffic by a driver who is evidently an Indy 500 race car driver. I didn't take it. Instinct kicked in – my hand found the horn, and maybe I woke the dead, or at least my sleeping husband.

But before we get too comfortable with our excuses, let's look at what Jesus had to say about anger. He didn’t mince words: “Under the laws of Moses the rule was, ‘If you murder, you must die.’ But I tell you that if you are angry, even in your own home, you are in danger of judgment!" (Matthew 5:21-22). Talk about raising the bar! Jesus likened unchecked anger to murder. Yikes!

History shows we’re not the first to struggle with anger. Remember the apostles James and John, nicknamed the “Sons of Thunder”? I’m guessing they weren’t called that because of their gentle whispers. And then there’s Paul, the apostle, who wasn’t shy about letting his anger show when he felt the gospel was being misunderstood.

But what about the riots and hatred we see today? It’s like a bad reality show – people tearing each other apart over politics, race, and social status. The scenes are heartbreaking and remind us of the deep-seated issues that anger can stir up.

We’re called to rise above this madness. The Bible is clear: “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control” (Galatians 5:22-23). That’s our real anger management program – and guess what? It’s free!

Think of Moses, who in a fit of rage, broke the tablets of the Ten Commandments. Anger is nothing new, but the solution has always been the same: drawing on the Holy Spirit for self-control.

Let's be real – who wants to be part of the red-faced, ranting crowd? Not me. I want to align myself with those striving to follow Christ, being self-aware and God-aware, especially when those anger triggers hit.

So next time you feel the heat rising, take a breath and remember the cool breeze of the Holy Spirit that cools us off with His peace that passes understanding. (Philippians 4:7)

Peace Maker or Anger Maker -- I choose peace!