No matter how hard is to work to redirect your anger in positive ways, there will always be times when we “lose it” and behave inappropriately. When this happens (and more importantly, before it happens), I find that it helps to have a collection of Scriptures to reflect and meditate on. Below I share eight Bible Verses about anger. On many occasions, they’ve helped me redirect my anger and handle it in healthy ways.
Once a close friend commented on something I said and assumed the worst about me. I was hurt and immediately got defensive and angry. That evening I kept replaying what she’d said that wounded me. Each time I went over the scenario, I became more irritated.
I knew holding on to my anger wasn’t the mature and godly way to deal with the situation, but I didn’t want to let it go. After all, I told myself, who wouldn’t feel this way? The next morning, I realized how tired I had been the day before and how my lack of sleep had contributed to my overreaction. I still, however, was having trouble letting go. During my morning devotions, I reread some of the Bible verses that talk about handling anger. I rewrote some of them in my journal as well as the traits a wise person possesses when it comes to being annoyed.
What Does the Bible Say About Anger?
My list of practical, biblical tools for managing anger keeps growing. Here is a list of some of the Bible verses about anger that I’ve collected over the years (all Scriptures are from the ESV):
7 Powerful Bible Verses That Help Redirect Your Anger
- Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; (James 1:19).
- Good sense makes one slow to anger,
and it is his glory to overlook an offense (Proverbs 19:11). - Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you (Ephesians 4:32).
- A fool gives full vent to his spirit,
but a wise man quietly holds it back (Proverbs 29:11). - You shall not take vengeance or bear a grudge against the sons of your own people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself: I am the Lord (Leviticus 19:18).
- Make no friendship with a man given to anger,
nor go with a wrathful man,
lest you learn his ways
and entangle yourself in a snare (Proverbs 22:24-25). - A soft answer turns away wrath,
but a harsh word stirs up anger (Proverbs 15:1).
Making Progress Through Setbacks With Anger
After studying this list I realized I still had plenty of room for growth. I wrote a prayer asking God for his forgiveness and help as it was obvious in this situation that I was having problems containing my hurt and frustration. The next day my friend and I talked about the situation. We each apologized for our parts in the tiff and expressed how important our relationship was.
Turning to God’s Word is a powerful way to mitigate anger and reframe your thoughts.
Which of the Bible verses about anger resonate most deeply with you today?
Warmly,
Georgia Shaffer
P.S. Today’s content was adapted from Taking Out Your Emotional Trash. If you’d like to read more, you can purchase your copy of the book here.
Or if you prefer to work with a coach as you work to overcome difficult habits, you can find out more information at www.GeorgiaShaffer.com/coaching/
Scripture:
I have stored up your word in my heart,
that I might not sin against you (Psalm 119:11, ESV).
