Righteous Anger

"You wouldn't like me when I'm angry." Even if you've never heard Dr. Bruce Banner's famous words of warning, you've probably felt that familiar itch of anger when someone intentionally pushes your buttons. And although none of us typically transform into an unstoppable green monster when we get upset, we all have the potential to cause great damage to ourselves and our loved ones when we allow our tempers to get the best of us. The truth is, the Hulk may seem to epitomize strength and power, but in reality, he most often embodies pain and regret.

Whether you can toss a tank or not, when we lose control of our anger, it's most often those closest to us that pay the price. When Dr. Banner transforms, the part of his brain that considers others safety and well-being is overridden by his need to express his anger. Sound familiar? The Bible tells us that a hot-tempered person commits many sins (Proverbs 29:22). Notice that it doesn't label anger a sin in and of itself. Paul also told the Ephesians, "In your anger, do not sin" (Ephesians 4:26). The Old Testament is filled with numerous descriptions of how angry God can be. Getting angry is a perfectly natural emotion. It's what we do with it that counts. So yes, it is important to differentiate between righteous indignation and foolish anger, but the Bible is clear that we should avoid acting on it when possible. Too often we invoke Jesus tossing the temple tables to justify lashing out at a friend or loved one before even considering an attempt to turn the other cheek. Don't get me wrong. Grace and mercy must exist in harmony with justice and responsibility. But be careful. Consider Proverbs 16:32, "Better a patient person than a warrior, one with self-control than one who takes the city." Another verse from Proverbs reminds us that we should air on the side of temperance when reacting to stress. "Fools show their annoyance at once, but the prudent overlook an insult" (Proverbs 12:16). The next time you're considering hulking out, ask yourself, is it worth it? Is this righteous rage or foolish anger? Pause to consider whether your actions will build or diminish the Kingdom of God. You may have the best reason for hulking out, but mind your surroundings. Even if you had a case as strong as the Hulk, it means nothing if you bring everything down around you. Don't lose the war to win the battle.