3 Mistakes You're Making When Angry (And How to Fix Them)
Are You Sabotaging Your Relationship with God Without Realizing It?
[Adapted from Josh’s YouTube video]
Introduction: Could This Be Blocking Your Connection with God?
Hey family, I’m Josh, and my heart is to help you feel closer to God in practical ways. If you've ever felt angry, frustrated, or hurt and didn't know what to do with those emotions—you are not alone.
I’ve been there too.
Today, I’m sharing three common mistakes we ALL make when we’re angry and how to avoid them. This is step 2 of my Feel Closer to God Today series. If you’re ready for all five steps, grab the free guide below!
By the end of this blog, you’ll know exactly how to handle tough emotions of anger in a way that not only honors God but brings His peace into your life.
Let’s dive in—this could change the game for your faith.
Why Anger Is Normal (But Can Distance You from God)
Let’s get real—anger is normal. Even Jesus got angry! But here’s the key difference: Jesus never let His anger separate Him from the Father.
Most of us? We don't handle anger the way God invites us to. Instead, we bottle it up, lash out, or gossip. And that’s when the distance from God begins to grow.
But there’s good news. God’s Word shows us a better way to deal with anger. Let’s walk through this step by step.
Mistake #1: Not Telling God How You Feel
Reflection Question: Do you find it easier to react to anger rather than process it with God?
If you’re like me, sometimes you react first and pray later. But listen—David, a man after God’s own heart, poured out his anger to God.
Psalm 55:1-2 says: "Listen to my prayer, O God... my heart pounds, and I can’t stop shaking."
David didn’t hide his anger. He brought it straight to God. When you do the same, you open yourself to God’s comfort and healing.
Practical Application:
Take five minutes today. Write down or pray out loud what’s making you angry. Don’t hold back. God can handle it.
Mistake #2: Venting to Others Before God
Reflection Question: Who do you turn to first when you're upset? God or people?
Let’s be honest—venting feels good. But venting to others before talking to God often turns into gossip and bitterness.
David’s response? "O God, have mercy on me, for people are hounding me." (Psalm 56:1)
David brought his frustrations to God FIRST because only God can handle our anger with perfect love and wisdom.
Practical Application:
Next time you feel the urge to vent, pause. Pray first. Even if it’s just, "God, I’m upset. Help me process this."
Mistake #3: Forgetting to Praise God When Angry
Reflection Question: Can you recall a time when praising God shifted your mood?
This may sound strange, but hear me out. One of the biggest mistakes is forgetting to praise God when you’re angry.
David wrote: "When I am afraid, I will put my trust in You. I praise God for what He has promised." (Psalm 56:3-4)
Praise shifts our focus from what’s wrong to WHO God is. It reminds us that even when life feels unfair, God is still good.
Practical Application:
The next time anger rises up, hit pause. Out loud, thank God for three good things happening in your life.
The Power of Grace in Your Anger
Let’s be clear. None of us handle anger perfectly. And that’s why grace is so essential.
Anger doesn’t have to distance you from God. When you bring it to Him, He draws even closer.
2 Corinthians 13:11 says: "The God of love and peace will be with you."
Even if you’ve made these mistakes, God isn’t far away. He’s just waiting for you to turn to Him.
A Time for Prayer
Father, I’m bringing my anger to You. I don’t want to let these emotions create distance between us. Thank You for Your grace, and for drawing near when I call. Help me to trust You with every part of my heart. Amen.
Next Steps
If you need prayer, leave a comment below. I would love to stand with you.
And if this blog encouraged you, don’t forget to download the Feel Closer to God Today guide. It could transform the way you experience God in your daily life.