Dealing with Anger issues

Explanation: Anger is a human emotion. It is defined as “A state of indignation and outrage, often resulting from distress caused by injustice or insult. Scripture affirms God’s righteous anger against sin and urges moderation in regard to human anger.

Manser, M. H. (2009). Dictionary of Bible Themes: The Accessible and Comprehensive Tool for Topical Studies. London: Martin Manser.

Anger can be a positive reaction when expressed properly. Jesus was angry with the religious leaders for their hardness of heart (), and was angry with those who prevented the Gentiles access to the Temple ().

Anger or wrath, is God’s settled disposition towards sin. The Bible informs us that God directs His anger towards unjustified sinners () and that He will punish sinners in the Lake of Fire (). God’s anger against sin is righteous and holy.

However, when anger lands in the human realm it most often leads to sin. It is possible for redeemed humans to express righteous indignation towards sin (the abortion movement, selfish choices that lead to broken marriages, etc.), but it is very easy for humans to fall into sin when we become angry.

The first mention of human anger is found in with the account of Cain and Abel. Scripture describes Cain as “very angry” (), and the end result was the first murder. Not only does Scripture tell us Cain was angry, we read in that Cain was of the evil one. Humanity does not have a good track record when dealing with anger.

Paul tells the Ephesian believers to “be angry and sin not” () which clearly sets forth the possibility of anger without sin, but he continues by telling them to “not let the sun go down on your anger” () which indicates the longer we stay angry the increased chance of sinning.

Believers should heed the dangers associated with anger

When we act from anger, we run the risk of looking foolish and making foolish choices ()

When we react with anger to a situation, we generally will cause more trouble and increase division, and lead others in sin ()

When we exhibit a pattern of anger, it will cost us friends ()

We need to realize that being angry with a brother or sister in Christ is a big deal that should be dealt with immediately ()

Overcoming our anger issues

The source of sinful anger

The Proverbs do not directly address the sources of human anger; instead, the various Proverbs emphasize the inherent danger of anger and prescribe ways to avoid or limit expressions of anger. Most of these are directed at the beginning stages rather than giving ways to cope with full-blown anger

Overcoming our anger issues

The beginning of strife is like letting out water, so quit before the quarrel breaks out (). It really does take a bigger person to be able to walk away instead of staying in and protecting our “rights” - most of the time at the expense of our witness to a lost and dying world

A good way to end an argument is not to retaliate in kind. There is a point when the conversation is heading for an argument. There is a moment when one decides to escalate the issue or one can defuse the situation. “A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” ()

The principle of calming words and being slow to be provoked is emphasized when trying to avoid anger. “Whoever restrains his words has knowledge, and he who has a cool spirit is a man of understanding.” ()

While this Proverb addresses the general consequences of having a loose tongue, it bears mention in relation to anger. “In the multitude of words, sin is not lacking, but he who restrains his lips is wise.” ()

Most of our dealings with unresolved anger lead us into the futile attempt of trying to take care of things by ourselves. A wise person, even when dealing with what is clearly an unjust situation, leaves vengeance to the LORD. ()

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