Anger has always intrigued me, especially since the common belief is that anger is simply an emotion. However, when we reflect more deeply, we realise that anger is a response to something—there are underlying reasons for our reactions and how we respond to others. This suggests that inappropriate actions are not merely accidental.

Scripture reveals that primal emotions or assumptions often spark anger. For example, Jonathan, the son of King Saul, was deeply distressed when his father tried to kill David, and this grief morphed into fierce rage (1 Samuel 20:30-34). 

Jonah also felt a deep anger when God commanded him to go to Nineveh, a city he believed deserved punishment. His frustration stemmed from a sense of injustice and powerlessness regarding God’s choice. He even stated that he was so enraged he wanted to die (Jonah 4:3).

An example of passive anger can be seen in Judas Iscariot’s reaction to the woman who poured expensive ointment on Jesus’ feet. Judas, feeling disappointed and possibly financially frustrated, questioned whether this ointment ought to have been given to the poor, revealing his passive manipulation stemming from anger (John 12:4-6).

These examples highlight that anger can sometimes go unnoticed, or we may fail to recognise its true source. It’s also important to understand that, according to the Bible, one can feel anger without sinning (Ephesians 4:26). These are two distinct concepts that we must consider carefully.

To address and overcome anger, we must first identify its root causes. Recognising the triggers and utilising the tools provided in Scripture can guide us in managing our anger in a way that aligns with God’s will and transforms our hearts.