In a recent interview, Megan Kelly asked Erika Kirk a question that hits at the core of human struggle: after the tragic death of her husband, Charlie Kirk, does she ever feel anger toward God? It’s a question Kelly admitted she wrestles with herself—and one that can leave many of us searching for answers. Erika’s response, however, offered a profound perspective on faith, resilience, and the power of forgiveness.
“The enemy would love for me to be angry,” Erika said. “He would love it because it would distract me from building what Charlie entrusted to me—raising our children, supporting Turning Point, being there for the team, being there for what the future holds. And if I had any anger in my heart and spirit, the Lord would not be able to use me.”
Erika’s words reveal a deliberate choice: to resist bitterness, to resist the temptation of anger, and instead dedicate herself to continuing her late husband’s legacy. She compared her daily approach to the way Charlie lived his life, standing on stage and declaring, “Here I am. Lord, use me.” Erika explained that anger would serve as a foothold for the enemy, preventing her from being used by God in meaningful ways.
Her reflections drew comparisons to the teachings of Jesus. Co-commentator Raj observed that Erika’s approach mirrors the example set on the cross: when Jesus was crucified, tortured, and executed, He prayed, “Father, forgive them, for they don’t know what they are doing.” Raj emphasized that Erika is striving to follow Jesus’ instructions to love enemies, do good to those who hate us, bless those who curse us, and pray for those who mistreat us.
“Anger leads to hate and then violence,” he explained. “It’s all about the disposition of our hearts. Erika is attempting to live out her faith, and for that, I applaud her.”
Kelly added that Erika’s reflections highlight a crucial spiritual truth: unforgiveness can hold people back from both God and others. She pointed out that Erika’s acknowledgment of anger as a hindrance echoes scripture, citing Acts 7, where Stephen, even as he was being stoned to death, prayed, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” In both examples, responding to grief and injustice with forgiveness, rather than resentment, allows the divine to work through the believer.
The conversation also underscored a profound human insight: forgiveness is ultimately about freedom. One speaker reflected, “To forgive is to set a prisoner free and then realize that prisoner was you.” Erika’s choice to release anger, despite immense personal loss, serves as a model for anyone grappling with grief, betrayal, or injustice.
“This is countercultural, even counter-human,” Kelly noted. “But what if we allowed ourselves to forgive because we have been forgiven? Bitterness is an easy temptation, but letting go allows God to do the healing work.”
As the holiday season approaches, the discussion takes on even greater significance. Gratitude, Kelly suggested, goes hand-in-hand with forgiveness. Reflecting on Erika’s example, she encouraged listeners to examine areas in their own lives where unforgiveness might be giving the enemy a foothold, reminding them that releasing anger doesn’t mean ignoring wrongdoing—it means choosing not to be controlled by resentment.
Erika Kirk’s example is a testament to the power of faith and the human spirit. In the face of unimaginable loss, she shows that anger, while natural, can be resisted, and that forgiveness can transform grief into purpose. Her words are a reminder that even in our darkest moments, choosing love and faith over bitterness allows us to continue forward, heal, and honor the legacy of those we’ve lost.
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