What does the Bible say about anger?
The Bible doesn't call every feeling of anger a sin. God Himself is angry at injustice, and Jesus was angry at hard hearts. But Scripture warns that human anger easily turns destructive, so it calls us to be slow to anger, deal with it quickly, and leave revenge to God.
By RenewedSpirit team · Published · Updated
Is anger a sin?
Anger is an emotion. What Scripture warns about is what we do with it and how long we hold it.
"“Be angry, yet do not sin.” Do not let the sun set upon your anger, and do not give the devil a foothold."
Be angry and do not sin. Paul tells us not to let anger settle in overnight.
"Jesus looked around at them with anger and sorrow at their hardness of heart. Then He said to the man, “Stretch out your hand.” So he stretched it out, and it was restored."
Jesus was angry and grieved at hard hearts. Anger at wrong can be right.
"My beloved brothers, understand this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger, for man’s anger does not bring about the righteousness that God desires."
Quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to anger. Our anger rarely produces the righteousness God wants.
How do I handle anger towards others?
Scripture gives practical help for anger in relationships.
"A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger."
A gentle answer turns away wrath. How we respond can cool a conflict or feed it.
"A fool vents all his anger, but a wise man holds it back."
A fool vents all his anger; a wise person holds it back and waits.
"Do not avenge yourselves, beloved, but leave room for God’s wrath. For it is written: “Vengeance is Mine; I will repay, says the Lord.”"
Leave room for God's justice. We don't have to settle every score ourselves.
"But now you must put aside all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips."
Rage and malice belong to the old life believers are putting off.
Frequently asked questions
What is righteous anger?
Anger at real wrong, like injustice or cruelty, that moves you toward doing good rather than harm. It's focused on the wrong, not on hurting a person.
How do I stop being angry at someone?
Tell God honestly how you feel, ask Him for help to forgive, and take a step toward peace where it's safe. Forgiveness is often a process.
Does God get angry?
Yes. Scripture describes God's anger at sin and injustice, always together with His patience, mercy and love.
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Scripture and sources
Ephesians 4:26-27; Mark 3:5; James 1:19-20; Proverbs 15:1; Proverbs 29:11; Romans 12:19; Colossians 3:8. Berean Standard Bible (BSB), public domain.
Reviewed by the RenewedSpirit team · Editorial standards