Anger: Productive and Destructive

by Dennis Michelson
(Painesville, Ohio)

Ephesians 4:26

Introduction: One of the strongest of all human emotions is anger. It can be employed to do great good or serve as the motivation for great harm. Anger could possibly be the greatest enemy of individuals, relationships, marriages, churches and the nation.

If God's people can learn to direct their anger toward the right thing then it could be used as a stimulus for a genuine revival. Sadly, many believers are angry but their ultimate anger is directed at God and they do not even realize it!

1. The Origin of Anger

Productive anger began with God (Genesis 3).

Destructive anger began with man (Genesis 4 - Cain).

2. The Operation of Anger

It can be a strong response based upon God's will as in Psalm 7:11.

It can be a strong response based upon our will as in Proverbs 14:17.

3. The Opportunity of Anger

It is a prime time for examination as in Jonah 4:4.

It is a prime time for reconciliation as in Ephesians 4:26.

4. The Object of Anger

Men tend to get angry an average of 6 times a week and usually at things.

Women tend to get angry an average of 3 times a week usually at people.

THE OBJECT OF ALL UNRIGHTEOUS ANGER IS ULTIMATELY GOD.

5. The Outcome of Anger

We can become bitter (I Samuel 1).

We can become blessed (Micah 7:18).