ANGER is a challenge for many of us men. Some of us have been intentional with addressing our frustrations, disappointments and hurts, but most of the time we veer off into the ditch with unhealthy responses or habits in the situations that make us angry.
During my three year apprenticeship in federal prison I observed that the federal government also recognized anger management as a major problem. The Federal Bureau of Prisons provides a structured Anger Management program to attempt to change the narrative with inmates. The reality … behavior modification does NOT transform us.
What provides transformation? Inviting God into our lives on a minute by minute basis. Taking EVERY thought and EVERY emotion captive. J.I. Packer says it well, “God made us thinking beings, and He guides our minds as we think things out in His presence.”
If you’ve read my messages in these past weeks, you’ve seen that Paul’s writing in the New Testament speaks directly to our daily journeys. Ephesians 4:26-27 (NIV): “In your anger do not sin”: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold.
In addition, Ephesians 4:31-32 (NIV): Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
Men – don’t fight the battle alone! Those of you in Mahaska or Marion or Wapello counties in Iowa, connect with the weekly Vital Men group in your area to walk with other brothers that are claiming God’s presence in their daily lives. Satan knows we are weak on our own. He LOVES it when we try to go it alone. We are strong together as we stand in God’s presence and claim His power. Satan will not win the battle.