Apr. 2013 Summer 2014 | Page 26

it’s time to take a good look at the situation. There may be an underlying issue. Chronic anger brings suffering that entails living with pain that doesn’t go away. It can be masked temporarily, but it won’t leave on its own. It must be evicted by the Holy Spirit in order to get rid of it for good. This is not a case where, “If the shoe fits, wear it.” No! I say, if the shoe fits, kick them both off and go barefoot. You do not have to wear those shoes. You do not have to live with inward anger any longer. If you find that you are living with unresolved anger, you are not alone. You can trust God to help you discover the underlying causes of the anger. Talk to Him and ask Him to reveal the truth to you. Be ready and willing to hear from Him however He chooses to answer. “Listen” to Him through His Word, talk to a trusted friend, a pastor, or Christian counselor. But do tell someone. This is the first step to being free. John 8:32 says, “Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” What truth? The truth about all of the unresolved issues lying inside your heart. It’s the truth about ourselves that makes us free. Don’t be embarrassed or afraid to appear vulnerable. And please don’t hold it inside thinking you have no other choice, you do. God Himself gave us a choice. God says, “…I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life that you and your children may live.” (Deut. 30:19). We “choose life” by letting go of unforgiveness, resentment and bitterness. All of your pain was nailed on the cross with Jesus. You do not have to live with anger and pain. You have a choice. Therefore, choose to let go, and live. Be blessed. _____________________ Cited sources: www.psychologicalselfhelp.org “Anger Turned Inward” www.psychologytoday.com/ blog/thinking-matters “Anger is Key Pt 2” w w w. d r d i a n e r a n d a l l . c o m / Depression “The Nature of Depression” www.self-esteem-the-simpletruth.com/anger “Anger: How it Affects Your Health and Wellbeing and How it Impacts the People You Love”