Anger

Topics in Christian Counseling

In your anger do not sin’: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold.” —Ephesians 4:26-27, NIV

Quick Facts

Anger itself is not a sin, though anger can lead to sinful actions if not controlled (See Ephesians 4:26).
Anger is a God-given emotion that is rooted in our internal desire for justice, an attribute that comes from being made in the Image of God.
Anger can be a primary emotion, such as an automatic reaction to an event, or a secondary emotion, that is, a reaction to another underlying emotion, such as fear, hurt, or sadness.
Anger can be felt and expressed at different levels of intensity: irritation, indignation, wrath, fury, rage, and hostility.
People express anger in different ways. The “Cream-Puff” is passive and represses their anger. The “Locomotive” is explosive and reactive. The “Steel Magnolia” is passive-aggressive, while the “Mature Responder” speaks the truth constructively in love.

Build awareness of your anger. Take note of specific triggers that cause you to become angry. Is your anger primary (in response to external events), or secondary (in response to underlying internal feelings)?
If your anger is in reaction to external events, note ways to change or alter your situation (or your attitude toward unchangeable situations).
If you are under a lot of stress, find ways to decrease your stress load and detach.
If you are dealing with difficult people, learn how to set healthy boundaries.
If your anger is secondary, find ways to express the underlying emotions beneath your anger. Many people who struggle with anger may actually be feeling depressed or anxious.

Bibliography

Clinton, Timothy E., and Ronald E. Hawkins. The Quick-Reference Guide to Biblical Counseling: Personal and Emotional Issues. Baker Books, 2009.
Oliver, Gary J., and Carrie E. Oliver. “Managing Your Anger.” Caring for People God's Way: Personal and Emotional Issues, Addictions, Grief, and Trauma, edited by Timothy E. Clinton et al., Nelson Reference & Electronic, 2010, pp. 201–219.