The Destructive Aspect of Anger

Part I

Anger in and of itself is not wrong.  It is an emotion given to us by God.  As with other God-given emotions,
we tend to use it sometimes in a destructive manner.  People often have a distorted understanding of what
anger really encompasses – to many individuals, it is only pure uncontrolled rage, or seething hostility.  Frequently, when a counselor suggests to someone that anger may be at the root of some of their problems,
they will deny they are angry.  They prefer to admit to being “frustrated,” “hurt,” “annoyed,” – but seldom
will they admit they are angry.   When they learn to appropriately identify anger, they can learn appropriate
ways to manage anger.  Venting anger in a destructive manner is a learned  behavior; the good news is that
this way can be “un-learned” and anger can be expressed in a more constructive way.  When anger is used
wrongfully, it is damaging to ourselves as well as to our relationships. 
 

There are four main sources of INAPPROPRIATE ANGER:

1. SELFISH DEMANDS:   When these demands are not met, anger is the result.  Selfishness
   is at the root of much destructive anger – selfish people tend to be angry people.  
2. PERFECTIONISTIC EXPECTATIONS:  Perfectionists are frequently resentful and angry                          (often toward self) because they demand too much of self, of others, and even of God. 
3. SUSPICIONS:  Motives of others are misinterpreted, leading to suspicions/assumptions and                       ultimately anger. 
4. ANGER AT GOD:    Always inappropriate anger, it is often the result of “unanswered” prayer,                      trials, or loss.

Obviously, not all that can be labeled “anger” is a violation of God’s law.  Anger is an attribute of God’s
nature – the Bible tells us “God is angry with the wicked every day.”   God is completely good and holy;
thus, we must conclude that Divine wrath is likewise good.  Can human anger also be good?        
(Continuation in an office session.)

                                                                                               Dr. Abley