 But volcanoes offer an unfortunate choice because they can continue exploding for years! A more appropriate metaphor would be likening anger to an iceberg. Ninety percent of the emotion is under the surface. And it is here, underneath the anger symptoms, where the real issues lie.
Caution is necessary because an anger iceberg can cause devastation and loss of life. Lessons can be learned about the destructive force of anger by studying the lessons learned from the Titanic. Running at high speed or plowing at full force into anger is never a healthy option.
Anger is a secondary emotion. Under the surface of anger are three primary emotions. A simple drawing of the anger iceberg visually represents how these emotions under the surface cause the real problems. So under the surface is where each person must put time and energy to understand what causes anger. When this cause (one or more of the primary emotions) is acknowledged and investigated, then healthy expression is encouraged and renewal of the mind and "heart" is possible.
Anger is not sinful.
"Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath ..." (Ephesians 4:26)
Anger is an emotion that God has given us the ability to experience. It is when we hold anger and do not let go of it that sin enters. Look closely and you'll see facets on surface of the anger iceberg that reflect sinfulness.
Five healthy steps are given for dealing with anger. Choosing appropriate actions, choosing to change, is difficult. But change is not impossible. For the glory of God, you can be transformed.
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