Whether you are filled with hurt, a sense of injustice, fear, or frustration, what should you do when you get angry? The Bible says, “Refrain from anger and turn from wrath; do not fret—it leads only to evil.” (Psalm 37:8)
Key Verse to Memorize: “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, for man’s anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires.” (James 1:19–20)
Key Passage to Read and Reread: “ ‘In your anger do not sin’: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold.… Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:26–27, 29–32)
GOD’S ANALYSIS OF ANGER
- Anger is appropriate at certain times. Ephesians 4:26
- Anger must be resolved, or it becomes sinful. Ephesians 4:26
- Anger can be curtailed. Ephesians 4:26
- Anger, if prolonged, gives ground to Satan. Ephesians 4:27
- Anger can lead to corrupt, unwholesome, degrading talk. Ephesians 4:29
- Anger can grieve the Holy Spirit. Ephesians 4:30
- Anger can be totally cancelled. Ephesians 4:31
- Anger becomes sin when it results in bitterness. Ephesians 4:31
- Anger must be eradicated before it turns into rage. Ephesians 4:31
- Anger must be forfeited before it leads to fighting. Ephesians 4:31
- Anger must be stopped before it becomes slander. Ephesians 4:31
- Anger must be mastered before it becomes malicious. Ephesians 4:31
- Anger can be conquered through compassion. Ephesians 4:32
- Anger can be defeated through forgiveness. Ephesians 4:32
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This information comes from Hunt, J. (2008). Biblical Counseling Keys on Anger: Facing the Fire Within, Dallas, TX: Hope For The Heart.