EVERYBODY'S ANGRY
We’re familiar with Road Rage, but how about “Sidewalk Rage?” Technically labeled "intermittent explosive disorder,” it’s a cryptic commentary on our times. A Facebook group, “I Secretly Want to Punch Slow Walking People in the Back of the Head,” boasts 18,000 members. Am I alone, or does it seem like everyone’s angry? Whether on the highway, internet or… yes, the sidewalk, we’re itching for a chance to release our pent-up rage. Of course, recent events in our nation (in fact all of 2020) didn’t exactly cool our jets.
Anger can motivate us to do some crazy stuff. A Wisconsin man was arrested for shooting his lawnmower when it failed to start. It’s a free country, but discharging an illegal sawed-off shotgun in the Milwaukee city limits landed him in jail. Proverbs 14:17 observes, “A quick-tempered person does foolish things.” No kidding… like shooting your lawnmower.
Another headline caught my eye a while back. “Man Strikes Woman on Way to Anger Management Class.” I’m speechless to respond.
The Bible speaks volumes on anger. For example, “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry” (James 1:19). It’s amazing how conveniently we reverse those statements.
Ephesians 4:26 commands, “In your anger do not sin. Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry.” Proverbs 17:14 warns, “Starting a quarrel is like breaching a dam; so drop the matter before a dispute breaks out.”
Of course, some situations call for anger. But in the heat of a disagreement, lashing out and name-calling only make matters worse. “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger” (Proverbs 15:1).
When anger boils up in you, try these ideas:
Pause— Don’t speak, don’t act, just breathe. If necessary, walk away.
Always assume positive intent— Try and see the other person’s perspective.
Focus on the bigger picture— Ask yourself, “How important is this in the overall scheme of things?”
Look at the example of Jesus— Even when brutally beaten and crucified, he prayed for his enemies.
Remember these thoughts the next time you encounter an irritating “nut” on Facebook (i.e. someone who disagrees with you), a stubborn lawnmower, a lunatic driver, or even a slow walker. Your anger won’t automatically vaporize, but it just might prevent you from doing something you’ll later regret— like punching a tortoise-like pedestrian in the back of the head.
Principle: Anger can motivate us to do some foolish things.
Promise: “A gentle answer turns away anger.”
Ponder:
What specific events/ relationship struggles “push your buttons,” resulting in an angry response?
What steps can I take to avoid responding in selfish anger?
Pursue: For a deeper dive, study Ephesians 4:20-32.
Prayer: “Lord Jesus, so often I respond to those I disagree with, in selfish anger. Please speak to me in those moments through your Holy Spirit, bring peace to my heart, and restrain my tongue.”
Perceptions: Record any ideas God puts on your heart from today’s devotion.