We must be careful not to allow ourselves to get distracted and to veer off course because of anger.
Anger is an emotion that a person normally feels when they've experienced directly or indirectly some type of injustice or hurt.
It is also one of the easiest ways for pride, revenge, and offense to take up residency in our hearts. Building a godly and healthy legacy is not for the faint heart. Stay focus. Guard your heart. Guard your mind. And as Christian leaders let's have a biblical perspective on anger management with godly wisdom and intent.
Listen to the audiogram snippet above or read the transcript below from the Good Day Leader episode titled Is Anger Distorting Your Perception? [click the link to listen to the full episode]
Audiogram:
A good journal prompt for journaling is to write down this question “is anger distorting my perception?”
Ask the Holy Spirit to help you with this exercise.
Then write down the things or people that have made you feel upset, hurt, overlooked, or taken advantage of within the past year. If you need to dig a little more past a year, do so. You may be amazed at the things that come to mind that you’re still holding on to.
Pay attention to how you’re feeling as you write them down. Are you angry or unforgiving?
Release those things or people to the Lord. Pray and say aloud to God that you are letting those things or people (say their names) go. Ask Him to heal your soul. To give you the grace to love and to forgive and for the peace of God that surpasses all understanding to guard your heart and mind.
As Christians and leaders, it is crucial to have those frequent heart checks with the Holy Spirit. And to be willing and obedient to what He is speaking to you. I want to see you win! And most importantly, God does too!
Scriptures on Anger: CSB Bible Version
Refrain from anger and give up your rage; do not be agitated-it can only bring harm. For evildoers will be destroyed. ~Psalm 37:8
For human anger does not accomplish God's righteousness. ~James 1:20
Let all bitterness, anger and wrath, shouting and slander be removed from you, along with all malice. ~Ephesians 4:31
The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in faithful love. ~Psalm 103:8
Be angry and do not sin. Don't let the sun go down on your anger, and don't give the devil an opportunity. ~Ephesians 4:26-27
Here's a Leadership Wellness video on: Assertive vs. Aggressive
Habitual aggressive behaviors and actions can cause damaging effects on you, your leadership, and those within your sphere of influence. This ties in with the importance of practicing anger management techniques and strategies for Christian leaders and all who can improve in this area.
If you struggle with aggression, invest in yourself with counseling, coaching, or personal development courses that will assist with bringing awareness and skill sets of constructive ways of communication.
Additional Resource:
Surviving in an Angry World: Finding Your Way to Personal Peace by Dr. Charles F. Stanley