Mastering Anger Toward the Irrational
By Rooted Africa (
Jonathan Edwards had resolved never to act from revenge (Resolution #14). Now he narrowed the focus even further: controlling the smallest stirrings of anger, even toward things or creatures without reason.
Resolution #15
Resolved, never to suffer the least motions of anger to irrational beings.
In simple terms: Edwards resolved never to allow even the slightest feeling of anger toward animals, objects, or anything irrational (e.g., no kicking the furniture when frustrated, no yelling at a malfunctioning tool, no irritation at a pet's behavior). This resolution reveals Edwards' commitment to self-control in the smallest matters. Anger toward the irrational often reveals deeper heart issues—impatience, lack of trust in God's sovereignty, or misplaced dominion. He wanted mastery over every emotion, even in private moments.Why This Matters TodayAnger leaks out in subtle ways: snapping at a slow computer, getting irritated with traffic, or losing patience with a pet. These "small" outbursts reveal the heart's condition (James 1:20: “The anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God”). Edwards teaches that true holiness extends to every sphere—even the irrational—training us for greater self-control in relationships.Applying Resolution 15 Practically
What small frustration might this resolution address in your life? Share in the comments or on X (
@kateyakli
)
Jonathan Edwards had resolved never to act from revenge (Resolution #14). Now he narrowed the focus even further: controlling the smallest stirrings of anger, even toward things or creatures without reason.
Resolution #15
Resolved, never to suffer the least motions of anger to irrational beings.
In simple terms: Edwards resolved never to allow even the slightest feeling of anger toward animals, objects, or anything irrational (e.g., no kicking the furniture when frustrated, no yelling at a malfunctioning tool, no irritation at a pet's behavior). This resolution reveals Edwards' commitment to self-control in the smallest matters. Anger toward the irrational often reveals deeper heart issues—impatience, lack of trust in God's sovereignty, or misplaced dominion. He wanted mastery over every emotion, even in private moments.Why This Matters TodayAnger leaks out in subtle ways: snapping at a slow computer, getting irritated with traffic, or losing patience with a pet. These "small" outbursts reveal the heart's condition (James 1:20: “The anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God”). Edwards teaches that true holiness extends to every sphere—even the irrational—training us for greater self-control in relationships.Applying Resolution 15 Practically
- When frustration rises: Pause and pray: “Lord, this is irrational—help me respond with patience.”
- With animals or objects: Treat them gently, remembering God's creation and sovereignty.
- In daily irritations: Use minor frustrations as prompts to confess impatience and seek grace.
- Habit: Notice the "least motions" of anger and redirect them to thanksgiving or prayer.
- Where do I allow small anger toward things or animals? What does it reveal about my heart?
- How might mastering these "least motions" prepare me for bigger self-control?
- What would change if I never let anger rise even toward the irrational?
What small frustration might this resolution address in your life? Share in the comments or on X (
@kateyakli
). We continue tomorrow with Resolution 16. This is Day 15 in our daily series on Jonathan Edwards' 70 Resolutions.References for Further Reading- Full text of Edwards' Resolutions: https://www.jonathan-edwards.org/Resolutions.html
- "The Resolutions of Jonathan Edwards" (Desiring God): https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/the-resolutions-of-jonathan-edwards
- Ligonier Ministries overview: https://learn.ligonier.org/articles/resolutions-jonathan-edwards
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