No One is Perfect

For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard. – Romans 3:23

One of the driving forces in anger is disappointment, and disappointment in people and their behavior is a big part of that force. Expecting that people should do things the way you think they should brings frustration. If you have repeated frustrating experiences with certain people (family, spouse, neighbors, coworkers) it is sure to bring out the worst in you.

If anger has become characteristic in your life and you generally blame this anger on others, it’s likely not the other people who have the problem. Someone might ask, “Why are you so angry?” or “Why are you so irritated?” and you might answer, “I’m not.” You might be unaware that your anger has surfaced. You might have a version of yourself in your own mind that doesn’t match the truth.

If you are often focused on how other people make you angry or can’t do anything right, it’s time for a self-check. No one is perfect. Not you, not anyone. When you can fully accept this, you will begin to experience less anger and frustration. As your perspective changes, your expectations will change, and you will find yourself with more patience. When you realize everyone has areas they struggle with, you can become more tolerant and kind. You will be less likely to judge others, show contempt, or lash out when situations don’t go as planned.

Try seeing yourself from another perspective. Have a conversation with a trusted friend or family member and ask them how they experience your anger. If you start feeling defensive, remember the goal is to just listen. You can control your anger through awareness, acceptance, and acknowledgment that no one is perfect!

Anger shows contempt. Anger tears down. It kills relationships. – Ed Welch

You can’t change what you don’t acknowledge. – Phil McGraw

TODAY’S PRAYER
Lord Jesus, remind me of how much you have done for me. Help me to be kind and patient in all of my relationships, whether close or casual, that my character would reflect you. Amen.

Taken from 100 Days to Freedom from Anger copyright © 2021 by Stephen Arterburn and Becky Brown. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. All rights reserved.