Controlling Your Temper
Exodus 20:13
Verse 13 – You shall not murder.
The problem with anger.
Matt. 5:21-22 – Jesus said, you have heard that it was said long ago do not murder, but I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment.
Truth: It’s just as evil to destroy someone’s self-worth as it is to murder them.
First let’s look at four common expressions of anger.
- There is the exploder.
Gen. 4:5 & 8 – Cain became furious and he scowled in anger and while they were in the field, Cain attacked his brother Abel and killed him.
- A mute.
Jer. 15:17-18 – I stayed by myself and was filled with anger. Why do I keep on suffering? Why are my wounds incurable? Why won’t they heal?
- A martyr.
Luke 15:28 – The elder brother was so angry he would not go in (to the party). So, his father went out and pleaded with him.
- A manipulator.
Luke 6:11 – But they were furious and began to plot with each other what they might do to Jesus.
Six principles for managing your anger.
Prov. 25:28 – If you cannot control your anger, you are as helpless as a city without walls, open to attack.
- Learn to like yourself.
Matt. 22:39 – Love your neighbor as yourself.
- Learn to admit your anger.
Job 7:11 – I can’t be quiet. I am angry and bitter. I have to speak.
- Look for reasons behind your anger.
Prov. 19:11 – A man’s wisdom gives him patience. It is his glory to overlook an offense.
- Deal with your anger immediately.
Eph. 4:26-27 – 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.
Ecc. 7:9 – Keep your temper under control. It is foolish to harbor a grudge.
- Stop and think before you speak.
James 1:19 – Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.
Prov 15:1 – A gentle answer turns away wrath. But harsh words stir up anger.
- Ask God to fill you with the Holy Spirit.
Gal. 5:22-23 – But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.