Originally published Monday, 06 August 2018.
This blog post first appeared on www.insideoutwithcourtnaye.org
What Does the Bible say about Anger?
I’m going to start this post by saying that everyone gets angry at some point in time or another. It’s inevitable. It happens. It could be anything from getting angry with the kids for misbehaving or becoming disrespectful to your husband not responding the way you would like, your boss or leader not giving you the promotion, or someone hurting you or saying or doing something that upset you. The truth is, we all get angry at times because it’s a real emotion and it’s God-given. But I believe, the key to balancing this real-life emotion is learning how to get it under control.
Again, no doubt, anger happens. Yet, when we feel this emotion rising, that’s when we need to have the power to control it. Proverbs 16:32 says, “It is better to be patient than powerful; it is better to have self-control than to conquer a city.” Meaning, we can have the power to do great things, but it’s better to be patient in tough situations and with difficult people. And it’s also better to have self-control than to conquer a great task or issue. *Controlling anger has a lot to do with being patient, meek (humble), and having self-control under pressure…it’s character (See Galatians 5:22-23 for the fruit of the Spirit).
Jesus tells us that apart from Him, we can do nothing. He says through John 15:5, “Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing.” (NLT) This is so true. If we want to respond properly, then we have to stay connected to the vine. It’s when we’re disconnected that our fruit begins to stink.
When anger and other emotions get the best of us, that’s when we have to check ourselves, confess where we are, and run back to Jesus. We need to ask for His help and forgiveness, pray for deliverance, and allow Him to change us from the inside out. The vital key is clinging to the vine and allowing the Holy Spirit to help us. And I believe that if we do this, we’ll not only have the godly character that pleases the heart of God and brings Him much glory, but we’ll also be able to conquer the anger inside.
Bible Verses to Control Your Anger
So, with that being said, here’s what we need to do in order to get anger under control…
James 1:19-20, “…be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry. Your anger can never make things right in God’s sight.” (NLT)
Ephesians 4:26-27, “And don’t sin by letting anger gain control over you. Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry, for anger gives a mighty foothold to the Devil.” (NLT)
Romans 12:21, “Don’t let evil get the best of you, but conquer evil by doing good.”
Proverbs 29:11, “A fool gives full vent to anger, but a wise person quietly holds it back.” (NLT)
Proverbs 14:29, “Those who control their anger have great understanding; those with a hasty temper will make mistakes.” (NLT)
Proverbs 15:1, “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but harsh words stir up anger.” (NLT)
Ephesians 4:31-32, “Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of malicious behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tender-hearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.” (NLT)
These verses are very helpful as we aim to conquer anger. But also, as I prepare to close this post, I need to say this. If you have allowed yourself to get so angry to the point where you’re lashing out at people, cursing, backbiting, holding unforgiveness in your heart, thinking evil thoughts, fighting, or just acting out in ways that you know is displeasing to God, then I encourage you to admit where you are and repent right now.
Because if left unchecked, these actions will not only displease God, but it can also hinder your progress and effectiveness in your personal life. It can also affect your witness to those you encounter. It’s not worth it. So, let it go, sis.
Let people go. Let dark or angry thoughts go. Don’t allow bitterness to take root in your life. Trust me. I’ve been there. That’s why I’m telling you to get free today and allow God to purify your heart, mind, and tongue today. Let Him show you how to respond with love, joy, peace, patience, gentleness, goodness, faith, humility, and self-control. You can do this with His Word and His Spirit.
Lastly, know that yes, you will get upset sometimes. Again, it happens to all of us. But keep in mind, the Bible tells us, “Be ye angry, and sin not. Let not the sun go down on your wrath.” (Ephesians 4:26 - KJV) I pray that this post has given you some guidance on how to get anger under control.
Remember, Jesus is coming back soon! And those who endure unto the end shall be saved. So let’s be ready from the Inside Out!
~Courtnaye
**Recommended book this week, “Breaking Free from Anger and Unforgiveness” by Dr. Linda Mintle. Action-packed little book! Grab it today!
QUESTION: Are you struggling with anger, sis? If so, in what ways? Also, if you need prayer, you can email me directly @ insideoutwithcourtnaye@gmail.com. I look forward to hearing from you and praying for you.
ALSO, my NEW 8-Week Study Guide and Video Teaching Series from my book, "IDENTIFIED: Knowing Who You Are in Christ & Moving Forward in Your Purpose” is FINALLY available!!! Purchase here.
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