To the editor:

It was about 18 years ago when the Lord decided that it was time to begin dealing with my anger problem and He did this using my grandson, who was really good at tormenting his sister. I realized God’s intentions because I knew in my heart that such a problem existed, but I had done an almost perfect job of unconsciously avoiding the issue, which I could trace back to when I was a young teenager.

God’s love for me has been manifested in many ways, but this was one of the most uncomfortable and challenging for me. I knew exactly what God was starting to do. I didn’t deny my situation, but as usual, at first, I sought my own release with my own understanding. For example, I sought deliverance, which was my way of seeking a quick release from a complex problem. Then, I begin studying God’s word earnestly, which I knew held the truth to my bondage (John 8:31-32). Also, I sought Godly counsel and was as transparent as I knew how to be; yet, the freedom Christ promised (see Luke 4:18) was very slow in coming, too slow for me.

During this protracted period of seeking God, I could tell that the things that made me angry didn’t have the same control of me that they used too. I would like to say that I am completely free, but I can’t. However, I can testify that God has been faithful to begin a process which will lead to freedom from anger and everything else that holds me captive (see Philippians 1:6).