Address Your Anger with Self-control

“Be angry, and do not sin; ponder in your own hearts on your beds, and be silent.” (Psalm 4:4)

There is righteous anger and unrighteous anger. To explain the differences, let’s start with the example of God.

God is sinless and, yet the Bible teaches us that God is angry (I Kings 11:9; II Kings 17:18; Ps 7:11; 79:5; Mark 3:5; John 2:13-22). Righteous anger comes when the name of God is being shamed – either by worship or specific sins. But, God is slow to anger and quick to show mercy (Ps 145:8-9).

The tendency towards righteous anger is because of unrighteous thoughts about God or about ourselves. For example, it is unrighteous anger…

• when there is no reason for it

• when it is directed at the person and not their sin

• when it is vengeful.

• when it is cherished

• when it is accompanied with unforgiveness

• when we are quick to emote it

• when pride drives it

• when we react – not knowing all the facts

These forms of anger are not the forms of anger that produce the righteousness of God (Jas 1:20).

Now, how can we refrain from sinful anger? Answer: learn self-control. Learn to be restrained in your speech when things don’t go your way (Prov 16:32; 29:11). That is the whole point. We can still be angry and not sin. Paul is saying, “When your emotions are bubbling up, when you feel as if you might lose complete control, tap into the external restrainer you have been given – the Holy Spirit.” Take a deep breath and believe God will give you the thoughts and words necessary.