Anger is one of our basic emotions. The God who created us as emotional human beings gave us the ability to experience anger, express it, use it for good, and then let it go. However, anger can also be destructive. It can quietly slip into our hearts when we are disappointed or irritated at someone or something. It can hide below the surface and sometimes boil over when there are relationship tensions. It explodes into marriages, ripping open families, and tearing nations apart. It can hide so well that it festers unrecognized and undetected until it silently weakens the immune systems and wears down our bodies.
Anger can also fuel unhealthy thoughts. We dwell on injustices, mull over how we have been mistreated, or how things could have happened (but usually don't). If we don't stop these unhealthy thoughts, it can pull us into anxiety, revenge and bitterness. When people allow bitterness and anger to get a hold on them, it leads to more anger, snuffing out joy and peace.
In addition, there are misbeliefs that people tell themselves about anger. These misbeliefs sustain and cause more angry resentment and bitterness.
The following are common misbeliefs about anger by Dr. William Backus:
