Happy Monday to you!
One of the aims of this website is to let love abound. How can we address the issue of loving others properly without writing a post about anger? Yes, you read correctly. This post is about being angry. It happens to the best of us. Has your husband ever forgotten to do a chore you asked him to complete weeks ago? Has your child ever broken a house rule? Have any of your friends betrayed your trust? If so, then you know how it is to be really upset.
In order to sustain a loving relationship with anyone, you have to understand two things. One, it is okay to become angry. Two, it is NOT okay to allow your anger to dictate your actions. Anger is an indication of disappointment of some sort. Anger is NOT a license to mistreat any human being, including the ones who upset you. Anger is your cue that there is a problem that requires a solution. Anger is not your cue to wreak havoc and exacerbate the problem.
So, you have to identify the cause of your disappointment. Recognize the humanity of the one who let you down. Approach any subsequent dialogue or interaction with that person with an understanding that you are human too. In other words, you also have moments of error. Express your disappointment and not your wrath.
If your husband puts aside a chore for weeks that doesn't give you a right to berate him. If your friend dishonors you, do not shame him or her. If your family member or loved one acknowledges the offense and seeks forgiveness, forgive. If he or she discontinues the hurtful action and shows consideration, hold no grudge nor resentment. If he or she continues the hurtful action, do not repay wrong with wrong. Continue to think, speak, and act from a place of love. If you act mercifully toward others, the Lord will act mercifully toward you.