After the tragic loss of life at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Florida, a TV news commentator expressed that he was too angry to pray, declaring, “Praying doesn’t help, so I’m gonna be pissed.” This sentiment, coupled with the recent line of duty deaths of several law enforcement officers, prompts the question: Is anger a barrier to prayer? While anger can be destructive, it can also be a powerful motivator when channeled correctly.
During police officer interviews, a common question is, “Why do you want to be a police officer?” Answers vary, but often include a sense of justice. Many are driven by a desire to catch criminals and ensure accountability. As expressive individuals, officers often experience compassion and anger intensely. This sense of justice, fueled by anger, can drive peak performance and sustainability in the field.
Anger is often associated with self-destructive behavior, leading to poor decisions. Like a weapon, anger can be invaluable when used properly, demonstrating strength and power. However, in the wrong hands, it can wreak havoc. While emotions have strengths and weaknesses, anger often carries a negative connotation because it can manifest as bitterness and resentment. Yet, as a primal reaction to fear, threats, and injustice, anger can be a powerful motivator. The key lies in channeling this motivation constructively, maintaining professionalism, and exercising self-control.
Consider a foot pursuit or a use of force incident. Did anger play a role? It might have even saved your life. In difficult investigations, such as sexual assault or murder cases, controlled anger can fuel the drive to overcome barriers. Without it, officers risk becoming robotic, viewing crime statistics as mere numbers rather than recognizing the real people who have been victimized. While detachment is often advised, taking things personally can be a driving force in one’s career.
It’s important to recognize anger, distinguish it for what it is, and channel it toward a favorable outcome. There is a point where anger transitions from a constructive stimulus to a destructive impulse. While some may find this less relevant, supervisors can use this information to better understand and guide their teams.
It is crucial to emphasize that uncontrolled anger can lead to caustic behavior and unprofessional conduct. The inability to control emotions, rather than the emotion itself, often leads to policy violations and legal issues.
Officers should recognize anger as a worthwhile emotion present in the performance of duty, but it must be harnessed. Like a firearm, anger can be used for justifiable means or for destructive purposes. Treating anger with the same respect as firearms can make it helpful rather than hurtful.
Consider the biblical example of Jesus confronting the moneychangers in the temple. He was angry because they were violating spiritual laws. He sought justice for the sanctity of the temple. If anger motivated a perfect man to pursue justice, it can be used to right wrongs without guilt. When teamed with self-control, righteous anger can be an ally, not an enemy. To exercise love in our capacity as sheepdogs, anger may be required to confront the wolves. May we all navigate the waves of anger predictably present in our profession with wisdom, self-control, and discernment.
If the rain falls on the just and unjust, what good does it do to pray? Prayer is invaluable because it keeps us focused and prevents anger from turning into bitterness. It shifts our attention from selfish ambition to the needs of others. During times of trouble, prayer reminds us that we are not abandoned. We are reminded that life on earth is temporary, that God is more interested in our character than our comfort, and that permanent healing from pain and suffering awaits those who surrender their lives to Christ.
Prayer brings hope, which is essential for survival. Despite the storms of life, faith provides assurance and reminds us of God’s love. Just as an officer might respond, “Because I can,” when asked why they are making an arrest, we can pray because we can.