“Be at peace with yourself and then you will be able to bring peace to others.”- Thomas A Kempis
In Chapter 12 (“I’m Angry at Myself”) of Anger, Dr. Gary Chapman begins by listing reason you may not be at peace with yourself. When we experience anger at ourselves, it is because we:
- perceive ourselves guilty of wrongdoing, unkindness, injustice, or carelessness
- fall short of our own expectations
- violate our own strongly held values (perhaps the area of greatest anger)
Most importantly, Gary emphasizes that “anger and guild should lead to repentance and refreshing forgiveness.” Therefore, he suggests a positive, five-step approach to processing anger toward yourself in a healthy way. Consequently, Dr. Chapman discusses the first three steps today.
1. Admit your anger. First of all, verbally admit that you are experiencing anger toward yourself. Furthermore, Dr. Chapman encourages you to admit other thoughts and feelings that accompany your anger. Those thoughts and feeling include disappointment, stupidity, letting people (including yourself and God) down, and irresponsibility. In conclusion, say them in prayer to God.
2. Examine your anger. Most of all, vast differences exist between definitive and distorted anger. Hence, violating moral principles requires much greater constructive processing than carelessly hitting your thumb with a hammer.
3. Confess wrongdoing to God and accept His forgiveness. Finally, Gary stresses that only one appropriate way exists to process anger toward oneself arising from one’s own sin. In addition, 1 John 1:9 presents this clear Scriptural message:
“If we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”
Today’s question: What Bible verses help you to be at peace with yourself? Please share.
Please note: new addition to Crown Jewels- “Practice, practice, practice”
Tomorrow’s blog: “Self-forgiveness”
