Writers 
The Scripture is abundant with guidance regarding the hazards of rage. In the Old Testament, Moses faced dire consequences from his anger, which led to his exclusion from entering the Promised Land as mentioned in Deuteronomy 32:51–52. In the New Testament, the apostle James advises, “Dear brothers and sisters, pay attention to this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger, for human anger does not achieve the righteousness God desires” (James 1:19–20).
Solomon states in Proverbs 14:17, “Those who are quick-tempered commit foolish acts.” Later in the same chapter, he notes that a “quick-tempered” individual “shows foolishness” (v. 29). In Ecclesiastes 7:9, he further advises, “Do not let your spirit be easily angered, for anger dwells in the hearts of fools.” It is likely that we can all recall moments when our anger led us to say and do unwise things, leaving us with regret.
I often express the notion, “Allow feelings to settle before making decisions,” indicating that choices should not stem from intense emotions.
It is crucial to let anger cool before deciding on how to act. Keeping this in mind proves beneficial when disciplining our children. Administering punishment while in a state of anger usually leads to consequences that are overly harsh for the child's specific misdeed. I recall correcting my kids out of anger and making statements like, “You are grounded for thirty days!” After a few days, I recognized that I was the one suffering more through the punishment, confined to a noisy home. Hence, I would ultimately lift the grounding earlier, resulting in an impression of instability and susceptibility to manipulation.
Some fathers addressed disciplinary situations in a different manner. When it came time to correct his children, he would inform them that he needed time to consider the appropriate punishment and would communicate his decision later. He would reflect on what was fair, deliver the consequences, and remain firm. They held a respectful fear of their father, understanding that he meant what he said, while they found it easier to persuade their mother to change her mind.
Anger is a topic that warrants serious attention. While God does not prohibit us from feeling anger, He instructs us to refrain from sinning in our anger. Additionally, His Word states that we should not allow the day to end with unresolved anger, to prevent giving the devil a chance to influence our lives (Ephesians 4:26–27). These passages indicate that unchecked anger can lead to sinful actions. There are instances where individuals have committed murder in fits of rage, consequently spending their entire lives incarcerated due to a single moment of lost control.
I believe it is fair to say that, in general, we exist in a society filled with anger. I can undoubtedly state that there appear to be more angry individuals today than I have ever witnessed throughout my life. At times, I feel as if some individuals are waiting for the right moment to erupt, much like a powder keg ready to blow.
When Jesus addresses the last days, He highlights a sign that many will become “offended” and will “pursue one another with hatred” or “hate one another” (Matthew 24:10 AMPC, NKJV, KJV). Other versions suggest that individuals will “turn away” or “fall away” from their faith in Christ and will harbor hatred towards each other (NIV, NLT, ESV, NASB). Anger is a genuine feeling that everyone experiences, but fortunately, Jesus offers us a remedy through forgiveness, just as He has extended forgiveness to us (Mark 11:25; Luke 11:4).
When you find yourself angry, do you choose to forgive promptly or do you hold onto anger?
Certain individuals perceive forgiveness as so challenging that they opt to stay angry instead. However, living with a heart full of anger is far more taxing than the act of forgiving. By forgiving others, we liberate ourselves from the pain and encumbrance of bitterness, hatred, and resentment. Being someone who quickly offers forgiveness is a true blessing and is pleasing to God.
