Dealing with Anger

When Fire Burns Hot, but Grace Burns Brighter

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Opening Reflection

I didn’t think I had an anger problem. Maybe you’ve told yourself the same thing.

But then someone cuts you off in traffic. Or your spouse says that thing again.
Or your kids ignore you. Or your coworker gets the credit. And suddenly—there it is—that tightness in your chest, that sting behind your words, that flash in your eyes.

Anger isn’t always loud. Sometimes it’s cold. Quiet. Simmering just under the surface.

I’ve been there. And maybe you have too.

Here’s the thing: anger itself isn’t always sinful. But it’s always a signal. A sign that something in you feels threatened, disrespected, hurt… or just plain tired.

And what you do next? That matters.

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Scripture Meditation

“Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, and give no opportunity to the devil.”
— Ephesians 4:26–27

“A hot-tempered person starts fights; a cool-tempered person stops them.”
— Proverbs 15:18 (NLT)

“The Lord is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.”
— Psalm 145:8 (NRSV)

Let those words sink in: slow to anger. Not void of it. Even God gets angry—righteously. But His anger is always rooted in justice and love.

You and I? We need help with that part.