Anger, It feels like a storm building inside of you- sudden, intense, and hard to control. When your heart starts racing and your body feels tense, like your ready to explode. Sometimes its a slow burn- a simmering frustration that builds over time and other times its a flash of heat that takes over in an instant. One way or another we’ve all felt it.
Anger itself isn’t the enemy, but when it’s left unchecked, it can become dangerous and destructive. The good news is... God offers us a better way. When we stay TRUE -Totally Relying Upon Elohim - we find peace, self-control, and a way out before anger leads us to sin.
Let’s take a deeper look at what God says about anger. What causes it, and how we can overcome it through faith.
What God Says About Anger
God doesn’t condemn all anger... there is such a thing as righteous anger, but He does warn us about letting it control us. When anger takes over, it often leads us down a path of hurt, regret, and brokenness. The Bible gives us so much wisdom on how to manage our emotions and find peace through Him:
• James 1:19-20 — “Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry. Human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires.”
• Ephesians 4:26-27 —“And don’t sin by letting anger control you. Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry, for anger gives a foothold to the devil.”
• Proverbs 29:11 — “Fools vent their anger, but the wise quietly hold it back.”
• Proverbs 15:1 — “A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare.”
• Psalm 37:8 — “Stop being angry! Turn from your rage! Do not lose your temper — it only leads to harm.”
• Colossians 3:8 — “But now is the time to get rid of anger, rage, malicious behavior, slander, and dirty language.”
These verses remind us that while feeling anger isn’t sinful, how we respond to it matters. God calls us to self-control, patience, and grace.
What Causes Anger?
Anger doesn’t just appear out of nowhere — it usually stems from deeper issues that need to be addressed:
• Unresolved Hurt or Pain — Past wounds can leave us sensitive and reactive.
• Frustration — When things don’t go as planned, impatience can lead to anger.
• Pride and Ego — Feeling disrespected or misunderstood can stir up defensiveness.
• Injustice or Unfair Treatment — Righteous anger can arise when we see or experience wrongdoing.
While these feelings are valid, God calls us to deal with them in a way that honors Him — not through rage, but through faith, reflection, and peace.
A Biblical Example: Cain’s Anger (Genesis 4:1-16)
Cain’s story is a powerful lesson on what happens when we let anger fester. When God favored his brother Abel’s offering over his own, Cain became jealous and furious. Despite God warning him to get his emotions in check, Cain allowed his anger to take root — and it led him to commit the ultimate sin: killing his brother.
God gave Cain a chance to deal with his anger in a healthy way, by addressing the root and repenting. But Cain chose to let his emotions take control. His story reminds us that unchecked anger leads to destructive consequences.
How to Overcome Anger by Staying TRUE
God’s word encourages us to be slow to anger, to address conflict quickly, and to find peace in trusting Him. So how do we do that?
• Pause and Pray — Before you respond in anger, take a moment to breathe and talk to God. Ask Him for wisdom and patience.
• Listen More, Speak Less — James 1:19 reminds us to be “quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry.” Often, anger flares when we react before fully understanding the situation.
• Deal with Conflict Quickly — Ephesians 4:26 warns us not to let the sun go down on our anger. Don’t let bitterness take root, address issues with love and honesty.
• Trust God with Injustice — When you feel wronged, it’s tempting to seek vengeance. But Romans 12:19 reminds us, “Vengeance is mine; I will repay, says the Lord.” Let God fight your battles.
• Surrender Control — Anger often arises when we feel out of control. But when we stay TRUE and totally rely upon Elohim, we remember that God is in control — and His peace will cover us.
A Prayer for When You’re Angry
Gracious Lord,
Today I come before You, asking for a change of heart. When things don’t go my way, I often become angry. But according to Your word, I should not let the sun set on my anger. So today, I pray that You will assist me in calming my rage. Please quiet my heart and give me serenity when I feel hurt and frustrated. Assist me in restraining my anger and responding with grace.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Final Thoughts: Managing Anger God’s Way
Anger itself isn’t sinful, but how we handle it matters. God calls us to manage our emotions with wisdom, patience, and love. When we Totally Rely Upon Elohim, He gives us the strength to respond with grace instead of rage. He offers us a way out before anger leads to sin — but it’s our responsibility to take it.
So next time you feel anger rising, remember this: Stay TRUE. Trust God. Find Peace.
