Move Anger In The Right Direction

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

We are all guilty of moving anger in the wrong direction. Everyone has escalated an argument, and nothing good comes from it. And here's a classic signpost that will tell you if your anger is moving in the wrong direction.

Inflammatory Words.

When you get heated, and the words start to fly, our language begins to change, and the inflammatory words start leaking out—this is a sure sign that your anger is moving in the wrong direction. For example, words like "You always" or "You never" are a sure indication of impending trouble. First, personal pronouns like "you" are pointed, and others focused. Second, words like "always" or "never" are almost always or never accurate. It's in our sinful nature to do this, but it's not helpful. And in the end, rather than sunsetting the issues, we might be sun rising new problems.

DO THIS: Determine a sunset clause for the issues that trigger your anger.

PRAY THIS: God, there are situations in which my anger becomes out-of-control. First, forgive me. Second, help me to understand what triggers my anger. Third, help me to find a way to move my anger toward Godly resolution.