What does the Bible say about anger self control?
Bible Topic · WEB
The Bible teaches that anger must be governed by faith, wisdom, and the Holy Spirit, so that believers are slow to wrath and quick to pursue peace. James 1:19 calls Christians to be quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger, while Ecclesiastes 7:9 warns against cherishing anger in the heart. Scripture permits righteous anger at sin, yet Ephesians 4:26-27 commands that it not become lingering resentment or an opening for the devil. Proverbs 16:32 praises self-control above military strength, and Proverbs 25:28 compares an uncontrolled spirit to a defenseless city. Christ gives peace (John 14:27), and the Spirit produces self-control (Galatians 5:22), enabling humble, gentle service (2 Timothy 2:24).
Top passages, ranked by readers
Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible
- James 1:19
So, then, my beloved brothers, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger;
- Ecclesiastes 7:9
Don't be hasty in your spirit to be angry, for anger rests in the bosom of fools.
- John 14:27
Peace I leave with you. My peace I give to you; not as the world gives, give I to you. Don't let your heart be troubled, neither let it be fearful.
- Ephesians 4:26
"Be angry, and don't sin." Don't let the sun go down on your wrath,
- Proverbs 16:32
One who is slow to anger is better than the mighty; One who rules his spirit, than he who takes a city.
- Proverbs 25:28
Like a city that is broken down and without walls Is a man whose spirit is without restraint.
- 2 Timothy 2:24
The Lord's servant must not quarrel, but be gentle towards all, able to teach, patient,
- Galatians 5:22
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,
- Proverbs 29:11
A fool vents all of his anger, But a wise man brings himself under control.
- Ephesians 4:26-27
[26] "Be angry, and don't sin." Don't let the sun go down on your wrath, [27] neither give place to the devil.
Related topics
Go deeper
Ask Explain Bible AI about anger self control and get a fuller answer from a Reformed theological perspective.
Ask what the Bible says about anger self control