A lady once came to the evangelist Billy Sunday and tried to rationalize her anger. “There’s nothing wrong with losing my temper,” She said, “I blow up, and then it’s all over.” “So does a shotgun,” Sunday replied, “and look at the damage it leaves behind!”
Anger is common among everyone. We all have emotions that sometimes get carried away when we are offended. Some of us have longer fuses than others, but anger is an area that we all have to watch. Failure to do so can lead to all kinds of hurtful and destructive actions, especially toward those whom we love the most.
In all cases, anger can be controlled, even with those known to have a bad temper, especially when trying to maintain a certain appearance before others. It is amazing how a person can turn off the appearance of anger when they are concerned with what certain people may think. What this shows is that those who take out their anger on loved ones show them to be less important.
What can we do to overcome problems with anger? First, don’t let the sun go down on your anger. The Bible says, “Be angry and do not sin: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil an opportunity.” – Ephesians 4:26-27. When we fail to deal with or resolve disagreements that day, we give the Devil an opportunity. Unresolved issues become burrs that lead to bitterness and constant sources of contention. It is a stone in a wall that is built one brick at a time when we fail to seek or offer forgiveness.
Second, hold your tongue. Proverbs 10:19 says, “When there are many words, transgression is unavoidable, but he who restrains his lips is wise.” If you have nothing good to say, don’t say it. As the Bible says, “Do not be eager in your heart to be angry, For anger resides in the bosom of fools.” – Ecclesiastes 7:9.
Third, stop it before it starts. Proverbs 17:14 says, “Starting a quarrel is like breaching a dam; so drop the matter before a dispute breaks out.” You may not be the one who is angry, but you may be the one to turn it around. Proverbs 15:1 says, “A gentle answer turns away wrath, But a harsh word stirs up anger.”
Fourth, when you fail, confess it to the Lord and go to those you offended and ask their forgiveness. 1 John 1:9
Fifth, memorize God’s Word, especially verses concerning anger, such as Proverbs 14:17, 15:18, 19:11, 29:11,20.
Don’t let anger overcome you! Remember, “He who is slow to anger has great understanding, But he who is quick-tempered exalts folly.” – Proverbs 14:29.
Would you like to know more? We would love to speak with you. Call us at 425-432-0634 or contact us at www.taylorcreekchurch.org. We invite you to join us for Sunday service: 9:00 AM for Sunday School and 10:15 AM for Worship. Address: 21110 244th Ave. S.E., Maple Valley.
