Managing Anger -- Seven Biblical Keys

Beloved, if we will incorporate the following seven biblical keys in managing our anger, we will lead happier, and more productive lives in the Lord’s service (1 Corinthians 15:58).

• Resolve To Manage Anger — The Proverb writer tells us, “Better a patient man than a warrior, a man who controls his temper than one who takes a city” (Proverbs 16:32 NIV).
• Realize The Cost Of Uncontrolled Anger — Once again the Proverb writer gives us warning and advice in this regard. “An angry man stirs up dissension and a hot-tempered one commits many sins” (Proverbs 29:22). “A patient man has great understanding, but a quick-tempered man displays folly” (Proverbs 14:29). “A quick-tempered man does foolish things” (Proverbs 14:17).
• Reflect Before Reacting — “A man’s wisdom gives him patience; it is to his glory to overlook an offense” (Proverbs 19:11). “A fool gives full vent to his anger, but a wise man keeps himself under control” (Proverbs 29:11).
• Release Anger Appropriately — Holding our anger inside ourselves is not good for us either mentally or physically. The apostle Paul tells us, “In your anger, do not sin. Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry” (Ephesians 4:26).
• Retrain Our Responses — Paul tells us in Romans 12:2, “Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind."
• Relate To Patient People — It’s a lot easier to control our anger if we learn to associate ourselves with patient people. The Proverb writer tells us, “Do not make friends with a hot-tempered man, do not associate with one easily angered, or you may learn his ways and get yourself ensnared” (Proverbs 22:24-25). “He who walks with the wise grows wise, but a companion of fools suffers harm” (Proverbs 13:20).
• Rely On God’s Help — Sometimes, we forget the obvious. Asking God to help us in times of anger, will help us keep our anger under control. Paul encourages us, “May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus” (Romans 15:5).

—Mike Riley, Gospel Snippets