April 24 – Fear Beneath the Anger
Whenever anger shows up, fear is underneath. Dan Allender
Gregg’s Reflection
Dan Allender says, “Whenever anger shows up, fear is underneath.” For years, I didn’t see it in myself. I thought my intensity was simply my passion for excellence or truth. But as I began to do my own inner work, I realized that the sharp edges in my voice were born from my fear of being found “not good enough.”
When we can name that fear, it changes the dynamic. Instead of defending ourselves, we can listen more deeply. Instead of pushing people away, we can invite them into the conversation. The fear that once fueled anger becomes a teacher, showing us where God wants to bring healing.
Anger is not the enemy—it’s the signal. Follow the signal down to its source, and you’ll often find fear waiting to be met with love and trust.
Scripture
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
John 14:27 (This verse was the focus of my meditation when I started in 1982)
Ancient Quotes
Fear is pain arising from the anticipation of evil.
Aristotle
Modern Quotes
Fear is an attention hungry little liar.
Nadia Bolz-Weber, Reflection 9/10/25
Whenever anger shows up, fear is underneath.
Dan Allender
When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves.
Viktor Frankl, Man’s Search for Meaning, p. 112
Journaling Prompts
- Think of a time when your anger might have been rooted in fear. What was the fear?
- How does naming the fear change your perspective on the situation?
- What could it look like to meet that fear with God’s perfect love?
👉 Go deeper into this week’s theme:
Read the full Week 17 Reflections: Fear, Shame & Guilt