Ephesians 4:26-27

“And ‘don’t sin by letting anger control you.’ Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry, for anger gives a foothold to the devil.”

Anger is something I deal with everyday. Sometimes it’s the good kind like anger over sin or injustice…but more often than not, its anger based on pride or a hard heart. It seems that just about every Christian has to deal with anger on some level, and today’s passage provides us with some great advice.

First of all, Paul tells us not to let our anger control us, regardless of whether it is righteous or not. One of the fruits of the Spirit is self-control (Gal 5:22-23) and that is especially needed when you get angry. After all, a fool gives full vent to his anger, but a wise man keeps himself under control (Prv. 29:11). So the next time you get angry…step away from the situation and make sure you get control of yourself so your anger does not lead you into sin.

Secondly, and this is especially important if you are married, don’t go to bed angry! If you are angry with your spouse or your children, don’t leave it until tomorrow! The devil loves it when we leave that door open so CLOSE IT before you go to sleep! Have the tough conversation. Seek forgiveness or give it as needed. Get the anger taken care of and everybody wins…except for the devil…and we should be good with that.