I'm angry. I'm hurt. I'm frustrated- What do I do next?

I'm angry. I'm hurt. I'm frustrated. Someone has hurt me, and that pain is more than just emotional; it’s physical, too. I've been mistreated, cheated, or lied to. I've been overlooked, ignored, or refused.

Disappointment can leave scars on our hearts, and stress can weigh so heavily on our bodies that it feels like we’re carrying the weight of the world. If you’re reading this, you’ve probably been there too. Maybe you’re there now. So, how do we handle this?

Let’s start with the obvious: feeling angry and hurt is okay. Scripture doesn’t deny the reality of our emotions. The Bible is filled with examples of people who expressed their pain and frustration to God. King David, a man after God’s own heart, penned many psalms where he poured out his soul in anguish. Psalm 13 begins with these words: “How long, Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me? How long must I wrestle with my thoughts and day after day have sorrow in my heart?” (Psalm 13:1-2). David’s honesty with God is a powerful example of how we can bring our raw emotions to Him.

But here’s the key: David didn’t stop with lament. He often transitioned from expressing pain to declaring trust in God. In that same psalm, he concludes: “But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation. I will sing the Lord’s praise, for he has been good to me” (Psalm 13:5-6). This shift is not about denying pain but about reframing it in light of God’s faithfulness.

When dealing with disappointment, we must also guard against letting bitterness take root. Hebrews 12:15 warns, “See to it that no one falls short of the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many.” Bitterness only compounds our pain, but forgiveness can release us from its grip. That doesn’t mean pretending the hurt didn’t happen or minimizing its impact. Forgiveness is an act of surrender—entrusting the situation and the person who hurt us into God’s hands. Romans 12:19 reminds us: “Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord.”

Physical pain and stress often go hand in hand with emotional turmoil. Stress can manifest as headaches, fatigue, or even chronic illness. The Bible recognizes the connection between our physical and emotional well-being. Proverbs 17:22 tells us, “A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.” This verse highlights the importance of seeking joy, even in the midst of trials. One way to find that joy is by casting our anxieties on God. 1 Peter 5:7 says, “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.”

Practically, this might mean spending intentional time in prayer, journaling your feelings, or meditating on Scripture that reminds you of God’s promises. It could also involve seeking wise counsel or talking to a trusted friend or pastor. Sometimes, dealing with pain requires the support of others who can remind us of God’s truth when we’re struggling to see it ourselves.

Jesus Himself experienced profound emotional and physical pain. In the Garden of Gethsemane, He was overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death (Matthew 26:38). On the cross, He bore the ultimate physical suffering. Yet, He entrusted Himself fully to the Father’s will. His example reminds us that we are never alone in our suffering. Hebrews 4:15-16 assures us: “For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.”

If you’re feeling hurt, angry, or stressed today, know this: God sees you. He cares about your pain, and He invites you to come to Him for healing. As you process your emotions, remember that disappointment and suffering don’t have the final word. God is with you, working all things for good, even when it doesn’t feel like it (Romans 8:28). Trust Him, lean into His promises, and allow His peace to guard your heart and mind (Philippians 4:7).

You’re not alone in this journey. Let’s walk it together, trusting that God will bring beauty from the ashes.