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Anger is an inevitable feeling that everyone will experience at some point in their life. It's one of those things that can't be avoided because it is often triggered by the actions of someone else.
As Christians, we often allow our anger to lead to another negative emotion - 'shame'. This is because many of us grew up believing that anger is a sin and that we should avoid being angry at all costs. However, the Bible provides us with valuable guidance on how to handle our anger in a healthy and constructive manner.
In this article, we will explore six powerful Bible verses about anger that teach us how to effectively manage this emotion and find peace within ourselves.
Anger Management - The Guiding Principle
Be angry and yet do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger. - Ephesians 4:26
We've already established that anger in itself is not a sin and that we should feel no shame for being angry. While that is true, the actions we take when we're angry can be sinful. This is why it's so important to learn how to manage it, and the guiding principle here is to not let the sun go down on it.
When we rely on the Holy Spirit's guidance, we can seek resolution and peace before the day ends. By addressing our anger in a timely manner, we prevent it from festering and causing further harm.
Things We Should Avoid When We're Angry
Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. - Ephesians 4:31
These are the exact things that happen when we let anger fester. It will turn into bitterness and then a fit of deeper anger that causes clamor, slander, and malice. As the Bible wisely reminds us, "A harsh word stirs up anger" (Proverbs 15:1).
When we allow ourselves to be consumed by these negative emotions, we not only harm ourselves but also damage our relationships with others. While anger is an emotion we cannot entirely avoid, we have the power to manage it and prevent it from leading to harmful actions.
By following the guiding principle and seeking the guidance of the Holy Spirit, we can choose to put away bitterness, wrath, clamor, slander, and malice. Let us be mindful of the words we speak, for they have the power to either escalate or diffuse anger.
Pin ItWhat We Should Do When We're Angry At Someone
Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you. - Ephesians 4:32
All Jesus heard as He carried the cross for us was "crucify Him," yet He still chose to die so we could live. All God heard throughout the time He rescued Israel from Egypt were complaints, yet He still performed miracle after miracle. They had every right to vent their anger in the most extreme ways possible, and yet they chose to show kindness; they chose to forgive us.
Though our anger is valid, our hearts should be tender. Let's do our best to be kind even when it's hard to be and to forgive even when it's not deserved. Because this is the way God wants us to manage our anger. When we extend kindness and forgiveness, we break the cycle of anger and allow healing to take place.
What We Should Do When Someone Is Angry At Us
This, you know, my beloved brethren. But everyone must be quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to anger. - James 1:19
When someone is angry at us, our first reaction is to be defensive. We tend to speak and defend ourselves before we listen and understand the feelings of the person who is angry with us. The quickest way to defuse anger is to respond with kindness and empathy. We should apologize if we were wrong, explain ourselves if it was unintentional, but never dismiss their feelings.
By adopting a humble and patient approach, we can create a space for effective communication and resolution. As Proverbs 15:18 states, "A hasty temper exalts folly," but when we are slow to anger, we exhibit wisdom and bring about understanding.
How to Respond When Someone is Angry
Do not associate with a man given to anger; Or go with a hot-tempered man, or you will learn his ways and find a snare for yourself. - Proverbs 22:24-25
When someone knows how to manage anger and chooses not to, they can become very toxic. Their anger may manifest in harmful actions and hurtful words, causing a negative impact on our own well-being.
It's now common knowledge that we become like the people we spend the most time with, so associating with that type of person won't be good for us. Instead, we should keep away from such people and pray for them.
Let God do with them what we fail to. It's not wrong to set boundaries and protect our peace. Sometimes, the best way to handle someone who struggles with anger is to maintain a safe distance while offering prayers for their healing and transformation. While we can pray for their transformation, it is essential to prioritize our own mental and emotional well-being.
The Benefits of Managing Our Anger
The discretion of a man makes him slow to anger, and his glory is to overlook a transgression. - Proverbs 19:11
When we manage our anger well, the fruit of the Spirit is seen within us. It takes discretion and self-control to be slow to anger and overlook a transgression. By practicing self-control and relying on the guidance of the Holy Spirit, we can avoid unnecessary conflicts and let go of offenses. This not only brings peace to our own hearts but also allows us to exemplify the virtues of patience, understanding, and forgiveness.
The ability to manage our anger reflects our maturity and spiritual growth. As the wise words of Proverbs tell us, it is our glory to overlook a transgression, rising above the impulse of anger and embracing a more gracious and compassionate approach. Through self-control and reliance on God's grace, we cultivate a spirit of peace and become a source of inspiration to others.
Final Thoughts On Bible Verses About Anger Management
The next time you feel angry, remember these six Bible verses about anger. Remember that feeling angry is not a sin, but the actions you take after that can be. By following the teachings of God's Word, seeking the guidance of the Holy Spirit, and practicing self-control, you can effectively manage your anger and find peace within yourself.
Anger is a powerful emotion, but you have the power to choose how you respond to it. Let the wisdom of the Bible guide you in handling anger with grace, kindness, and empathy. Trust in God's love and His transformative power to help you navigate through challenging emotions. He will provide you with the strength and wisdom you need. Always remember, "A hasty temper exalts folly, but he who is slow to anger quiets contention" (Proverbs 15:18). May you be slow to anger and wise in your actions, bringing calmness and understanding to every situation. Let self-control be your ally in the journey towards emotional well-being and spiritual growth.
If you are looking for more resources what that Bible says about anger, we recommend the below books.
For Children
For AdultsFor AdultsFor Parents
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About the Author:
Corine Williams, Ph.D. is Clinical Psychologist that is currently seeing clients through www.doctorondemand.com. However, her passion is to write books that educate, uplift, and help provide parents with a tool to talk about difficult subjects. You can find out more about her at www.booksbycorine.com or by visiting her amazon profile here: https://www.amazon.com/Corine-Hyman/e/B00AWZ5FL2
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