Handle with Caution

by David Gibson

Anger, like gasoline, is volatile, explosive, and dangerous. It must be handled with utmost caution. In our world today, we are witnessing a volcano of rage, leading to deadly consequences.

The Scriptures offer at least two guidelines for managing anger.

First, be “slow to anger; for the anger of man does not achieve the righteousness of God” (James 1:19-20 NASB; see Proverbs 14:29).

Second, “Be angry, and yet do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, and do not give the devil an opportunity” (Ephesians 4:26-27).

Applying the brakes

While anger is appropriate on some occasions (Mark 3:5), it can so easily lead to sin. James teaches us to have a long fuse. Paul teaches us to extinguish our anger by day’s end. In other words, be slow to anger, but quick to end it.

Putting these safety barriers around anger is an effective way to control one of the most dangerous emotions known to man.