When was the last time you became angry, when you got really mad about something? Was it a month ago? A week? Within the last 10 minutes? How did you handle it?
It matters a great deal what you do when you become angry. You can stir up trouble, make enemies, ruin chances or make yourself sick. But by properly handling your anger, you can keep situations under control, cement friendships, win respect and stay healthy.
The Bible assures us that “Good sense makes a man slow to anger, and it is his glory to overlook an offense”(Proverbs 19:11).
When anger washes over you, just say to yourself, “It is stupid to get mad. It won’t get me anywhere except into trouble. The momentary satisfaction of letting go isn’t worth the difficulties I will experience as a result.” Take a minute and talk yourself into being sensible. This procedure will slow down your anger reactions and help you rise above insults or aggravations. “Let every man be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger” (James 1:19).
The longer you can keep quiet, the more effective your reactions will be. Don’t say the sharp words, don’t make the quick retort, don’t write that nasty letter (or if you do, tear it up). Say nothing. Keep quiet. Make no reply. Practice the great strategy of delay.
“Do not let the sun go down on your anger” (Ephesians 4:26). Empty your anger out every night to keep it from accumulating. In your prayers, drain off any anger that may be lingering in your mind. Forgive everybody; tomorrow is another day. Start it fresh, with a mind focused on the positive things in your life.
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