​LOVE AND ANGER

When I reflect on what I hold dear—like birds in flight, beautiful mountains, vibrant coral reefs, or even the uncontainable laughter of my family — I can’t help but notice the threats on the horizon. I see the pollution and deforestation. But I also see the conflicts of this world. I see the injustices of this world that siphon off the beauty of this world. 

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These realities stir something fierce within me.

And so, because I love, that thing within me that stirs is anger. Deep, passionate anger.

If we love deeply, anger is almost inevitable. When something we cherish is harmed or threatened, it’s natural to feel a righteous fury.

Anger, much like physical pain, serves a purpose. When I touch a hot pan in the oven, pain alerts me to pull back, preventing greater harm. Similarly, anger is like a soul-deep alarm. It signals that something is wrong—be it injustice, injury, or degradation—and calls us to act with urgency. But as with pain, how we respond to anger matters greatly.

Scripture invites us to channel anger into something transformative rather than destructive. Jesus calls us to transcend our impulsive responses in his Sermon on the Plain, urging us to “turn the other cheek.” Paul reinforces this when he writes in Romans, “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” and “bless those who persecute you.” These teachings don’t ignore anger but instead offer a way to transform it into creative, loving action.

When anger arises, it’s easy to slip into fight, flight, or freeze. But with intentionality, we can pause, take a breath, and ask, “What might the Holy Spirit inspire me to do in this moment?” This space allows us to step away from being reactive and step into thoughtful responses — actions shaped by love, patience, and self-control (Galatians 5:22).

Anger is powerful. It can be good or bad — it all depends on how we use it. Handled wisely, anger fuels change and prevents complacency. It can be a force for healing, a way to combat evil with good, and a source of creativity.

So yes, I’m angry. But it’s an anger born of love, and when paired with wisdom and prayer, it’s a gift that can transform the world for the better.
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Peace,
Travis Segar
Pastor for Care and Community