Is there any hope to overcome my familiy's anger?
From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham
Q: Anger runs in my family, back several generations from what I’ve been told. As a Christian, this is overwhelming at times. When I see tempers lash out at others, it is crushing – particularly when I hear my children say, “Well, it is just in our family DNA!” Is there any hope to overcome this? – G.A.
A: Anger causes people to lose the joy of living. When temper rages, expression goes. When temper rages, reputation goes. When temper rages, testimony goes. Though we excuse ourselves by blaming our uncontrolled anger upon our natural disposition, our conscience tells us that it is wrong. There is the haunting conviction that we are grieving the Spirit of God when we are ruled by violent temper.
We must stop justifying ourselves by saying, “My whole family is quick-tempered; it’s inherited.” We already know in our hearts that unruly anger is sinful in the eyes of God.
God’s Word tells us that we can overcome. “He who is slow to wrath has great understanding, but he who is impulsive exalts folly” (Proverbs 14:29, NKJV). If there were no way to overcome anger, if there were no way to bring it under control, God would never have said this. He never demands an action that is impossible to achieve. There is victory in Christ!
The Bible tells us that “if we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9, NKJV). The tongue that was once used for profanity now becomes an instrument of praise. The hands that once wounded now become hands that heal. The feet that once walked the pathways of violence now walk the pathways of love and service. The wild horses of passion are tamed by the Spirit and become our servants rather than our masters. It is possible when we live according to God’s Word.
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(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)
©2025 Billy Graham Literary Trust. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
(c)2025 BILLY GRAHAM DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.
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