The Destructive Power of Wrath in Christian Marriage
- Dawna Peterson
- Apr 5
- 1 min read
Every marriage experiences anger. And that's okay if it stays just a short burst of anger. But when it becomes wrath, it can poison a marriage.
Anger itself isn't sinful. It's a natural emotion signaling that we feel wounded. In fact, healthy expressions of anger can clear the air and inspire renewed commitment to your marriage vows.
The danger comes when anger transforms into wrath – when your goal shifts from expressing hurt to inflicting pain. This critical distinction appears throughout Christian teaching for good reason: wrath destroys what love has built.
The wrathful spouse weaponizes words, planning retorts rather than listening, seeking to "win" arguments rather than understand. These painful exchanges leave spiritual and emotional wounds that resurface repeatedly, creating a growing chasm between hearts once united.
Most troubling is how wrath blinds us to our responsibility. We blame our spouse for "making us" lash out, convincing ourselves our vengeance is justified. This self-deception prevents the humility and vulnerability necessary for reconciliation.
Remember Christ's example: even when deeply wounded, He responded with love rather than retaliation. In your marriage, practice this same transformative love. When anger rises, pause and ask yourself:
"Am I seeking understanding or victory? Healing or revenge?"
Your marriage deserves protection from wrath's poison. With prayer, self-awareness, and grace, you can transform moments of anger into opportunities for deeper communion.
To learn more about the sin of wrath and its effects on marriage, read our free chapter "The Wrathful Marriage" from our book Climbing the Seven Story Mountain.
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