Uprooting Anger by Robert D. Jones

Pg. 103-104

How can you uncover your concealed anger and replace it with godly fruit? Can people really change? What directives can we offer Jill and other anger concealers like her?

1. See the sinfulness and ugly consequences of your bitter heart and concealing behavior.

As we saw in chapter 3, you must identify and expose the idols in your heart, those entrenched desires and demands. While the desires themselves are not necessarily evil, they become evil when they rule your heart. Good desires easily become bad masters. Journaling helps you detect such idols and learn from anger episodes what changes are required

One useful homework assignment is to list specific negative consequences-in relation to God, others, and yourself- of harboring anger. What will result if you continue to conceal your anger? Consider inviting your spouse and friends to add to your list.

2. Turn to Jesus Christ in repentance and faith, and believe that he fully forgives you.

Having seen the sinfulness of your anger-concealing, believe in God’s provision of abundant grade in Jesus Christ. He died and rose not only for hot heads (flagrant sinners) but also for clammers (silent sinners who hide their anger). In light of his gracious promises, confess your sinful heart idols and clamming actions and receive his forgiveness. Furthermore, believe that there is help and hope in Christ. God’s grace not only forgives but also changes sinners. One reason why many Christians make little progress overcoming concealed anger is that they doubt God’s transforming grace. He can melt your bitterness and make you a forgiver.