The Real "Culprit"

I hover on the edge of anger. No, correct that—I'm well over the edge. There is always someone, or something to blame. And I can quote chapter and verse to justify the rage I feel.

Anger stems from not getting what I want. People disappoint. Things don't work as programmed. Schedules get adjusted without consideration for me. Even I don't function as anticipated.

Yes, I can place blame easily and legally embrace my anger.

Then, slowly but certainly, a truth overtakes me, sneaking underneath the barriers and defenses that anger erects.

If uncontrolled anger is the result of not getting what I want, who is ultimately to blame? God, who gives, takes, and withholds until the time is right, is the ultimate "culprit." Can I justify blaming the One who knows what's best for me, who knows my needs better than I know them myself and who has always supplied what is necessary to satisfy them?

I know the answer. And somehow in understanding who my anger is really directed at, it fizzles and fades simply because I believe that God knows best. Its passing lends weight once more to Jesus' words: "…you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free" —John 8:32.

Comments

  1. Joanne Sher9 July 2009 at 09:51

    So true! What a humbling and effective way to stop that unrighteous anger that we feel WAY too often. Great stuff.

    ReplyDelete
  2. BethL11 July 2009 at 00:05

    You "cut right to the chase" and "get to the bottom line" with this, "If uncontrolled anger is the result of not getting what I want, who is ultimately to blame? God…" You have a challenging message with this, Lynda!

    ReplyDelete

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