From Anger to Mercy
because judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment. James 2:13
This last week I’ve been angry. Now, anger itself isn’t really an issue. Sometimes things happen and anger is an appropriate response. Over the last year we’ve experienced one of those situations. But when anger shifts into bitterness, there you have a problem. Last week my anger could have easily grown into a fullout, wrap around your heart, squeeze till you die, root of bitterness.
And though the source of my anger deserves punishment, in many ways so do I.
Maybe my sins aren’t as blatant, but they’re still sins. And I’ve been offered forgiveness. So, a new day has begun, and though the hurt and anger remain, I will choose mercy over justice.
Any thoughts?
Christina
Christina Suzann Nelson is an inspirational speaker and award-winning author of six books, including More Than We Remember, What Happens Next, and the Christy Award-winning The Way It Should Be. She is the mother of six children and is passionate about helping others find hope after trauma.
2 Comments
gramma
Anger doesn’t happen instantly and turning it into mercy can take time. You can lay down the anger by an act of your will, choose to let it go, and through the power of the Holy Spirit God will offer true forgiveness!
Years ago a friend told me that she actually sat in a chair, opposite an empty chair, placed her hands in front of her, palms up, and said “Lord, this is yours….please take it from me.” She then turned her palms downward, as if dumping something, thus letting go of the situation/anger and began trusting Him to help her.
It’s worked for me… I’m not totally there yet cause things often creep back. BUT, I have a visual that I can see and remember I asked Him to help me.
Jodie Bailey
Girl, the stages of grief stink. Period. You’ve done denial. You’ve done pain. Now you’re to anger, and that’s a dangerous one. People get stuck there, and I’m so proud of you for your determination not to get stuck. I’m praying. And I love you!