Reflection: Dealing with Stress and Anger through Faith and Understanding

From a young age, I have always felt God’s presence around me. Even as a child, I sensed that something greater was guiding and protecting me, though I could not yet put it into words. It wasn’t until I grew older that I began to truly understand what faith meant—to trust in God not just in moments of joy, but also in times of struggle. One verse that came to have deep meaning for me is from the Gospel of Luke: “For my eyes have seen your salvation” (Luke 2:30). These words remind me that faith is not simply about belief, but about recognition—seeing God at work in our lives and trusting His promises even when the path ahead feels uncertain.

As I reflect on my journey of faith, I recognise that living with dyspraxia has shaped how I understand and respond to stress and anger. My disability has taught me patience, humility, and the importance of perseverance. Each day presents its own challenges—tasks that others may find simple often require extra effort and concentration from me. Yet, rather than viewing this as a limitation, I see it as part of the way God has formed me. I have learned that our weaknesses can be transformed into places of strength when we allow God to work through them, as St Paul writes: “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9).

There have been moments when people’s misunderstanding of my disability has stirred frustration—times when I have felt underestimated or treated with pity. In those moments, I remember Jesus’ words: “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” (Matthew 5:44). I try to see others through the lens of compassion rather than anger, recognising that many have never encountered someone with a hidden disability. Rather than reacting in frustration, I strive to educate and respond with grace. This approach allows me to transform potential conflict into understanding, turning anger into an opportunity for witness.

When stress and anger begin to build, I turn to prayer and reflection. In the stillness of prayer, I offer my struggles to God, trusting that He will bring calm to my restless heart. The Psalms often give voice to emotions I cannot express alone: “Cast your burden on the Lord, and he will sustain you” (Psalm 55:22). These words remind me that I do not have to carry my frustrations by myself. Psalm 46:10 also calls me to stillness—“Be still, and know that I am God”—a gentle invitation to rest in His presence and to find peace in the midst of turmoil.

In the Gospels, I am continually reminded of how Jesus handled anger and misunderstanding. When faced with ridicule and opposition, He responded not with rage but with mercy. Even in His suffering on the cross, He prayed, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do” (Luke 23:34). This radical forgiveness challenges me to let go of resentment and to choose peace over bitterness. Forgiveness, I have learned, is not a sign of weakness but of spiritual maturity—it frees both the giver and the receiver.

Jesus’ teaching in Matthew’s Gospel also reminds me of the importance of reconciliation: “If you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there… first be reconciled” (Matthew 5:23–24). These words encourage me to approach others with open communication and honesty, seeking understanding rather than division.

Through faith, I have discovered that dealing with stress and anger is not about suppressing emotion, but about transforming it through God’s love. As Psalm 37:8 advises, “Refrain from anger and forsake wrath; do not fret—it leads only to evil.” Instead of dwelling on frustration, I seek the peace that Jesus promises: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you… Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid” (John 14:27).

Looking back, I can see how God has been shaping my heart from childhood—teaching me to trust Him, to forgive others, and to find strength in my weaknesses.

My faith is what grounds me in moments of challenge and what guides me toward compassion and understanding. Each day, I pray the words of Psalm 19:14: “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.”

Through His grace, I continue to learn that even in moments of anger or stress, God is present—calling me to stillness, to faith, and to the peace that passes all understanding.

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Prayer:

Loving and gracious God,

You know the thoughts of my heart and the struggles I face each day.

When stress and anger rise within me, calm my spirit with Your peace.

Teach me to be patient with others, gentle with myself,

and steadfast in faith when life feels overwhelming.

Help me to see Your hand at work in all things,

turning weakness into strength and frustration into understanding.

Fill me with the wisdom to forgive, the courage to love,

and the grace to walk in the footsteps of Jesus,

who meets every challenge with compassion and peace.

Amen.