02 Sep Being Angry With God: What The Bible Says

Anger is an emotion that all of us experience, some more than others. When you or someone you love are facing a seemingly impossible situation, you may find yourself getting angry with God. In fact, I think almost everyone I know has likely experienced this at some point in their lives. When you are angry with God there are two responses that you may have: guilt or denial. By studying this topic more closely, we can learn how to respond appropriately when we find ourselves angry with God.

Is it okay to be angry with God? Anger is a common emotion. Many Biblical role models clearly expressed their anger or frustration with God or the situations in which He had placed them. Because God is all-knowing, he realizes that you are angry with Him. While it is normal to be angry with God on occasion, we must work to respond appropriately. Instead of focusing on the cause of our anger, we must focus on His goodness despite our current emotions. 

Although being angry with God is a common experience shared by most believers, it is not something that is often discussed. It is important to take a closer look at this topic so that we can gain a Biblical perspective on anger with God.

In this post, we will share more about what the Bible says about being angry with God. We will also share some practical steps you can take when you find yourself angry with God. At Liberty Justice HQ, we hope that this article is encouraging and insightful as you strive to become more like Christ.

What the Bible Says About Being Angry With God

The Bible covers a wide variety of topics. It can be easy to forget that the men and women told about in the Bible were humans just like us. They experienced the same feelings and emotions, including anger with God. Studying these Biblical accounts can help us establish a framework for dealing with our feelings of anger towards God. Let’s take a closer look at what the Bible says about anger.

Is Being Angry With God a Sin?

Anger is a natural emotional response. In fact, even Jesus felt anger! It is normal that we feel angry with God when a loved one is faced with incredible difficulty or when life doesn’t seem to go as planned. Although anger in itself is not sinful, we must be careful in how we act on this emotion.

Ephesians 4:26-27 reads as follows, “Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, and give no opportunity to the devil.” We must remember this verse both in times of anger towards others and in times when we feel anger towards God. 

We must take steps to move out of our anger with God, focusing instead on the many ways He has blessed us. By praying and taking time to renew our minds, we often see the error in our ways and are reminded of God’s sovereignty and grace.

Biblical Examples of Being Angry With God

There are countless Biblical examples of people who were angry with God, both in the Old and New Testaments. One prime example of expressing anger or frustration with God is David, one of the writers of the book of Psalms. Here are some of the verses in which he shares his emotions towards God: 

Psalm 13:1-6

Psalm 13:1-6 reads, “How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me? How long must I take counsel in my soul and have sorrow in my heart all the day? How long shall my enemy be exalted over me?

Consider and answer me, O Lord my God; light up my eyes, lest I sleep the sleep of death, lest my enemy say, “I have prevailed over him,” lest my foes rejoice because I am shaken. But I have trusted in your steadfast love; my heart shall rejoice in your salvation. I will sing to the Lord, because he has dealt bountifully with me.” 

Psalm 42:9-11

In another passage, Psalm 42:9-11, we read, “I say to God, my rock: “Why have you forgotten me? Why do I go mourning because of the oppression of the enemy?” As with a deadly wound in my bones, my adversaries taunt me, while they say to me all the day long, “Where is your God?”

Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me? Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my salvation and my God.”

In both of these passages, David begins by expressing his negative emotions towards God. However, He doesn’t mellow in his anger and frustration. While he is honest and transparent with how he is feeling, he ends the passage praising God and reminding himself of God’s grace.

Things to Remember When You Are Angry With God

While we should strive to minimize our anger with God, it is an emotional response that we are bound to experience from time to time. When you find yourself feeling negative emotions towards God, there are a few things you should keep in mind. 

Remember That God Knows You Are Angry With Him

God knows you better than you know yourself. While many people deny that they are angry with God, it is important to remember that God already knows that you are angry with Him. God desires for us to be open and transparent with Him, sharing the deepest thoughts and emotions of our soul.

Understand That Anger is a Window to Your Soul

When you are angry with God, it is important to understand that anger is a window into your soul. Perhaps your anger is shining a spotlight on idols or unintentional sin in your life. Maybe it is simply highlighting how little you understand God’s ways. 

Realize That How You Act in Anger is Important

Many times, you don’t realize you are angry with God until it has already been a conscious thought for some time. When you do realize you are angry with God, you must take steps to work through your negative emotions and reframe your mindset. 

Understand That You Are Not to Stay Angry With God

As Christians, we must work to uncover the cause of our anger and dissipate those emotions as quickly as possible. We are not to remain angry with anyone, especially with God.

What to Do When You Are Angry With God

So, what are some practical steps you can take when you are angry with God? While your unique approach will depend greatly on how you connect with God, here are some ideas for getting started. 

Ask God to Speak To Your Heart 

When you begin to feel angry with God, praying is likely the last thing you wish to do. However, it is important that you set aside some time to ask God to speak to your heart. Through prayer, you may develop a clearer understanding of why you are angry to begin with.

Study Biblical Examples of People Who Were Angry With God

We can gain such valuable insight through studying the Scriptures. Take some time to study Biblical examples of people who were angry with God. A few good places to start are the books of Job and Psalms. By reading these passages, you can receive both encouragement and perspective on what it looks like to work through your anger with God in a positive way.

Reflect On God’s Goodness Despite Your Current Emotions

When you are angry with God, it is easy to dwell on the reason you are feeling these negative emotions. Instead, we must work to refocus our minds on God’s goodness, despite our current emotions. The Psalms paint a beautiful example of this practice. Begin by challenging yourself to think of three blessings in your current situation and take time to thank God for those gifts He has given you.

Bible Verses to Pray When Your Are Angry With God

Another great way to work through your anger with God is to pray the Scriptures. Here are some helpful verses to pray when you are angry with God:

• Psalm 6:3,6
• Habbakuk 1:2
• Psalm 10:1
• Jeremiah 12:1
• John 13:7
• Psalm 13:1-2
• Isaiah 43:2
• Psalm 35:17
• Exodus 14:14
• Lamentations 5:20
• Psalm 79:5
• Psalm 89:46
• Isaiah 66:9
• Psalm 145:18
• Psalm 56:8
• 2 Kings 20:5
• Romans 8:18
• Hosea 6:3

God loves to speak to His children through His word. When we take time to pray and read the Bible, we allow God to speak into our hearts, reminding us of His grace and goodness. Many times when we are angry with God it is because we have forgotten these very aspects of His nature.

In Conclusion

Almost every Christian I know has struggled with feeling anger towards God. Whether due to a physical circumstance or something outside of your control, anger is a natural emotional response. While we may have times where we are angry with God, we must be proactive in our response. Instead of remaining angry with God, we must work to refresh our minds and focus instead on establishing a Biblical view of His justice, goodness, and favor.