“You have heard that our ancestors were told, ‘You must not murder. If you commit murder, you are subject to judgment.’ But I say, if you are even angry with someone, you are subject to judgment! If you call someone an idiot, you are in danger of being brought before the court. And if you curse someone, you are in danger of the fires of hell.” Matthew 5:21-22 NLT
Two Types of Anger
Righteous angeris being angry at the same things Jesus would get angry over (John 2:12-25, Ephesians 4:26)
Destructive angeris being angry for self-centered reasons
Why Is Anger Deadly?
- It damages others
- It destroys you
What Should I Do When I Am Angry?
- Recognize it
“People with understanding control their anger; a hot temper shows great foolishness.” Proverbs 14:29 NLT
- Anger is a secondary emotion
- Ask yourself: “Why am I angry?”
- Resistover-reacting
“Fools vent their anger, but the wise quietly hold it back.” Proverbs 29:11 NLT
- Refuse to retaliate
“A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare.” Proverbs 15:1 NLT
- Relyon God
“You can be sure of this: The Lord set apart the godly for himself. The Lord will answer when I call to him. Don’t sin by letting anger control you. Think about it overnight and remain silent.” Psalm 4:3-4 NLT
- Learn to rely on God by spending time with God
“Be still and know that I am God!” Psalm 46:10 NLT
“…be filled with the Holy Spirit,singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs among yourselves, and making music to the Lord in your hearts. And give thanks for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Ephesians 5:18-20 NLT