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Since we know God’s thoughts on the subject of
anger and bitterness, we can be assured that He does not want to leave
us wallowing in a habit pattern that only causes grief, isolation and
guilt. He sent His Son to free us from slavery to bad habits. So…
HERE’S THE PLAN:
- At the beginning of each day thank God for:
- His kindness and patience which has led you to
repentance. (Romans 2:4)
- The cleansing blood of Jesus Christ (1
John 1:9), and
- His healing of all the hurts of the
past, even though you may not feel it as yet.
(Use Psalm 103
to help you).
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- Confess the fact that you have harbored bitterness and
resentment (Ephesians 4:32)
- Ask God to bring to your mind those people you have not
forgiven (Mark 11:26); and those whom you have
offended so you can seek forgiveness (Matthew
5:23-24).
Pray aloud: "Lord,
I forgive _______________(name the person) for ______________
(name the offense).
Remember: Forgiveness is freeing YOU, dealing with YOUR pain,
not another’s behavior!
NOW: you will never bring the subject up to that person again,
Nor speak about it to someone else,
Nor allow your mind to dwell on the subject again.
- Think about ways to speak in love to those you've offended
or who have offended you for the purpose of building them up.
"Do not let any unwholesome talk come out
of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up
according to their needs, that it may benefit those who
listen." (Ephesians 4:29)
- Reconcile quickly.
"If you are angry, don't sin by nursing
your grudge. Don't let the sun go down with you still angry - get over
it quickly; for when you are angry, you give a mighty foothold to the
devil." (Ephesians 4:26)
 Since anger is a habit pattern built on the sin of
pride, we know that it can be overcome since Jesus came to save us from
our sins; not in our sins. As we follow His guidelines for
change, leaning on the strength of Jesus and not on our own strength, He
will give us the victory.
Seeking forgiveness and offering forgiveness are important
elements in dealing with anger. Take time and follow through even though
it may not feel good at the moment.
 Instead of being reactive, learn to be proactive
which involves making the choice to respond in an appropriate
manner. Slow down, take time, pray a prayerful Help, and ask yourself, "How
would Jesus respond?"
In your outbursts of anger, you are revealing the true condition of
your heart. Heart change takes time. You are developing a new habit to
replace the old habit of long standing.
You can overcome your anger through the
strength of Jesus Christ!
(Philippians 4:19) |