Anger is a natural human emotion. The Scriptures reminds us it is not a sin to be angry, what matters is how we handle it. St. Paul reminds us in Ephesians 4:26 : “Be angry, but do not let the sun go down on your anger.” Anger should be fleeting, a response to injustice, a call to protect or defend what is right.

But anger can become dangerous when it lingers: misplaced anger, reactive anger, and smouldering anger. When we carry grudges, plot revenge, or transfer our frustration onto innocent people, anger becomes destructive—not just to others, but to ourselves. Jonah’s story illustrates this well: he was angry not at wrongdoing itself, but at God’s mercy. His inability to let go made him bitter and blind to God’s perspective.

To overcome destructive anger, we must turn to the model of the Lord's Prayer and the mercy of God. Calling God "Father" reminds us that He regards all people as His children and desires their well-being.

Christian anger is different. It is rooted in love, concern, and a desire for repentance and healing, not revenge or selfish gain. True forgiveness flows from recognising our own weaknesses and the mercy God has shown us. Letting go of anger frees us to act with compassion and clarity, allowing God’s love to work through us.

Reflection Question: When I feel anger, is it serving the good of others or just my own hurt, and how can I let go to act with forgiveness and compassion?