Redeeming Anger: Turning Pain Into PurposeSample

Recognize the Opportunity in Anger

As we navigate life’s pivotal moments, our mindset plays a crucial role in how well we cope and which skills we choose to guide us through our challenges.

One of the most insightful ways to grasp the power of these challenges is by looking at the Chinese word for “crisis.” In this language of symbols, the word comprises two characters, each representing opposing concepts. The top character means "danger," while the bottom means "opportunity."

This combination creates a powerful mental image. While every crisis brings its share of unknowns, danger, and uncertainty, it also holds the potential for growth, change, and improvement in how we approach life.

When we face critical situations, we often spiral downward until we come to terms with what’s happening. Once we accept reality, we hit rock bottom and begin climbing out of the emotional pit. As we rise, we’ll either emerge stronger or weaker than before, but we’ll never be the same—our thoughts, feelings, and actions will have shifted in some way due to the crisis.

If we focus on the opportunity, we will be higher functioning and be more like Jesus. If we get angry and adopt a victim mentality, we will function less healthily than before we experienced the crisis. It is important to note that if unresolved anger is turned inward, it can become depression.

Focusing on the opportunities—the potential for change and growth that comes with life’s unfair challenges—will guide us on a different path than fixating only on the dangers and setbacks.

A line from Tauren Wells’s song reminds us, “Giving in to feelings is like driving in shadows.” While connecting with our emotions is often essential, clear thinking during critical moments offers a way to avoid being swept away by overwhelming feelings. We have the ability to control how we think, even in the face of life’s toughest challenges, and how we think will determine how we feel.

Unlock Your Life:

Do you respond or react when faced with a crisis? Do you focus on the unknowns and dangers, or can you look for the silver lining in the situation?

Identify a recent crisis that you experienced and write a journal entry about how you handled it. Did you allow yourself to be fearful or angry, or could you see that God could use it for good, for your growth and healing? Did you focus on the danger or the opportunity that the crises presented?

Partnering with God:

Father God, thank You for never leaving me or forsaking me. I know You want to use the challenges I face to refine me so I reflect more of the character of Jesus. Thank You that I don't face trials myself because You are there to face them with me. Thank You in advance for helping me see the opportunity in the circumstances of life that challenge me. Continue to heal me so I am open to partnering with You to receive the Truth that will change me. In Jesus' Name, Amen!