What practical steps can we take to control anger in our lives? Key Verse To Anchor Us Proverbs 29:22: “An angry man stirs up dissension, and a hot-tempered man abounds in transgression.” Why Unchecked Anger Is So Dangerous • Fractures relationships (Proverbs 15:18). • Opens the door to further sin (Ephesians 4:26-27). • Blinds discernment (Proverbs 14:17). • Grieves the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 4:30-31). Practical Steps For Keeping Anger Under Control 1. Recognize anger early • “The prudent see danger and take refuge” (Proverbs 27:12). • Do a heart check the moment irritation sparks. 2. Pause and slow your response • “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger” (James 1:19-20). • Count to ten, breathe deeply, step away if needed. 3. Surrender the heat to God • Confess it and ask for the Spirit’s calming fruit of self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). • Imitate His character: “compassionate and gracious, slow to anger” (Psalm 103:8). 4. Speak gentle words • “A gentle answer turns away wrath” (Proverbs 15:1). • Season speech with grace (Colossians 4:6). 5. Address root issues quickly • “Do not let the sun set upon your anger” (Ephesians 4:26-27). • Forgive and release grudges (Colossians 3:13). 6. Guard your environment • “Do not associate with a hot-tempered man” (Proverbs 22:24-25). • Feed the mind with Scripture and praise (Psalm 119:165). 7. Seek wise counsel and accountability • “Iron sharpens iron” (Proverbs 27:17). • Invite mature believers to speak truth into your life. 8. Practice ongoing gratitude • Give thanks in all circumstances (1 Thessalonians 5:18). • Gratitude shifts focus from irritation to God’s goodness. Walking It Out Every Day • Begin each morning in the Word, setting a peaceful tone. • Memorize calming verses (Proverbs 14:29; Philippians 4:5-7). • Celebrate even small victories of self-control, giving God glory. • Persist—growth is gradual, but the Spirit’s power is sufficient. |
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