The danger of anger…​

Understanding Anger Through a Biblical Lens

Scripture does not portray anger as inherently sinful. Ephesians 4:26 instructs,

“In your anger do not sin: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry” (NIV)

This acknowledges that anger is a natural response but warns us against allowing it to lead into sin. The real issue is not whether we feel anger but how we handle it.

Anger must be understood in light of God’s justice. Anger can respond to actual injustice, but it must be surrendered to God’s ultimate justice rather than allowed to fuel vengeance. Romans 12:19 reminds us,

 “Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord.”

In “The Prodigal God”, Tim Keller highlights how anger often reveals deeper idols of the heart. Anger frequently arises when something we deeply value—control, reputation, or comfort—is threatened. If our anger is rooted in wounded pride or self-interest rather than a passion for God’s righteousness, it must be redirected through repentance.

Jesus: The Model for Righteous Anger

Jesus himself displayed anger, but his anger was always righteous. In Mark 3:5, Jesus looks around “in anger and, deeply distressed at their stubborn hearts” when the Pharisees opposed healing on the Sabbath. His anger was not self-serving but rooted in love and a desire for justice. Jesus’ anger was always controlled and never led to retaliation; instead, it was directed toward restoring what was broken.

On the cross, Jesus had every right to be angry at those who mocked and crucified him, yet he chose forgiveness:

“Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing”

(Luke 23:34).

This is the ultimate example of surrendering anger to God’s will.

Practical Steps for Managing Anger as a Christ Follower

1. Pause and Reflect – Before reacting in anger, take a moment to pray. James 1:19 instructs us to “be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.”
2. Examine the Root – Consider whether your anger stems from personal pride, fear, or a genuine concern for justice.
3. Choose Forgiveness – Colossians 3:13 urges, “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”
4. Surrender to God’s Justice – Trust that God will deal with injustice in His time and way (Romans 12:19).
5. Seek Reconciliation – Where possible, approach conflicts humbly, seeking peace (Matthew 5:9).

Managing anger through the gospel, transforms us into Christ’s likeness, shaping us into peacemakers rather than perpetrators of division. Let us, therefore, surrender our anger to God and walk in His grace.