The emotion of anger is not a problem in itself, but anger becomes a problem when left unresolved. Prolonged anger brings bitterness and unforgiveness. One way you can choose to harbor anger is by refusing to face your feelings in a healthy way. This unresolved anger not only creates a rift between you and God, but also damages your body, destroys your emotions, and demoralizes your relationships.
Whether you recognize it or not, extended anger can cause significant physical, emotional, and spiritual problems. Jesus said, “I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment.” (Matthew 5:22)
Unresolved anger is known to produce in many people some of the following physical, emotional, and spiritual symptoms:
Physical Symptoms: High blood pressure, Heart disease, Stomach disorders, Intestinal disorders, Headaches, Blurred vision, Insomnia, Compulsive eating
Emotional Symptoms: Anxiety, Bitterness, Compulsions, Depression, Fear, Insecurity, Phobias, Worry
Spiritual Symptoms:
- Loss of Perspective
- Allowing your emotions to distort your thinking
- Loss of Vision
- Losing a sense of purpose for your life
- Loss of Sensitivity
- Failing to hear the Spirit of God speaking to your heart
- Loss of Energy
- Lacking strength for your service to God and others
- Loss of Freedom
- Becoming a prisoner of your circumstances
- Loss of Confidence
- Feeling insecure about your response to difficulties
- Loss of Faith
- Failing to trust that God is working in your life
- Loss of Identity
- Becoming like the person toward whom you are bitter
Unresolved anger produces bitterness. And the Bible links bitterness with being in bondage to sin. “I see that you are full of bitterness and captive to sin.” (Acts 8:23)
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This information comes from Hunt, J. (2008). Biblical Counseling Keys on Anger: Facing the Fire Within, Dallas, TX: Hope For The Heart.