What does the Bible say about being angry?
Bible Topic · WEB
The Bible teaches that anger is dangerous when it rules the heart, yet believers may bring righteous concern under God's control rather than sinning. Ephesians 4:26-27 warns not to let anger linger or give the devil an opportunity, while James 1:19-20 calls us to be slow to anger because human wrath does not produce God's righteousness. Psalm 37:8 and Ecclesiastes 7:9 urge us to forsake resentment and quick temper. God Himself is gracious and slow to anger, as Psalm 145:8 declares, and He calls His people to reflect His patience. A gentle answer can turn away wrath, says Proverbs 15:1, and Christ gives peace amid trouble in John 16:33.
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Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible
- 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.
- James 1:19-20
[19] So, then, my beloved brothers, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger; [20] for the anger of man doesn't produce the righteousness of God.
- Psalms 37:8
Cease from anger, and forsake wrath. Don't fret, it leads only to evildoing.
- Proverbs 15:1
A gentle answer turns away wrath, But a harsh word stirs up anger.
- Proverbs 29:8-18
[8] Mockers stir up a city, But wise men turn away anger. [9] If a wise man goes to court with a foolish man, The fool rages or scoffs, and there is no peace. [10] The bloodthirsty hate a man of integrity; And they seek the life of the upright. [11] A fool vents all of his anger, But a wise man brings himself under control. [12] If a ruler listens to lies, All of his officials are wicked. [13] The poor man and the oppressor have this in common: Yahweh gives sight to the eyes of both. [14] The king who fairly judges the poor, His throne shall be established forever. [15] The rod of correction gives wisdom, But a child left to himself causes shame to his mother. [16] When the wicked increase, sin increases; But the righteous will see their downfall. [17] Correct your son, and he will give you peace; Yes, he will bring delight to your soul. [18] Where there is no revelation, the people cast off restraint; But one who keeps the law is blessed.
- Psalms 145:8
Yahweh is gracious, merciful, Slow to anger, and of great loving kindness.
- John 16:33
I have told you these things, that in me you may have peace. In the world you have oppression; but cheer up! I have overcome the world."
- Ecclesiastes 7:9
Don't be hasty in your spirit to be angry, for anger rests in the bosom of fools.
- Proverbs 26:20
For lack of wood a fire goes out; Without gossip, a quarrel dies down.
- Proverbs 21:2
Every way of a man is right in his own eyes, But Yahweh weighs the hearts.
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