What Does the Bible Say About Being Angry?

Have you ever wondered what does the Bible say about being angry? Is it possible to live a life free from taking offense?

In his book Unoffendable, Brant Hansen explores these questions and challenges common beliefs about anger. He delves into biblical teachings on anger and offers a fresh perspective on dealing with emotions in light of Scripture.

Read on to discover how you can cultivate a more gracious and peaceful approach to life's frustrations.

What Does the Bible Say About Anger?

The Biblical Perspective on Anger

When it comes to anger, you might be wondering, "What does the Bible say about being angry?" You may be surprised to learn that Scripture doesn't support the idea of "righteous anger" that many people believe in. In fact, the Bible consistently encourages believers to let go of anger rather than holding onto it.

Throughout both the Old and New Testaments, you'll find passages urging followers to eliminate feelings of resentment, rage, and bitterness. This theme is particularly emphasized in Ephesians 4:31. Even in the face of injustice, early Christians were often instructed to avoid anger.

It's important to note that the concept of "justifiable indignation" isn't supported by biblical teachings. James 1:20 specifically states that human anger doesn't produce the righteousness God desires. This challenges the common belief in the validity of "righteous anger."

The Role of Forgiveness in Christian Life

Forgiveness is a cornerstone of Christian belief. As followers of Christ, we're called to forgive others just as God has forgiven us. This principle is beautifully illustrated in the parable of the unmerciful servant.

But forgiveness isn't always easy. It's a selfless act that reflects the grace we've received from God. When you forgive others, you're mirroring the same selfless love that Christ demonstrated for humanity. It's about letting go of your right to hold onto negative emotions and embracing the compassion God has extended to you.

Humility: The Key to Overcoming Anger

Living a life where you avoid taking offense is crucial, and it starts with humility. But true humility isn't about self-deprecation. Instead, it's about being indifferent to your own importance and focusing on the needs of others.

C.S. Lewis described true humility as a state where you're not thinking about yourself at all. It's about directing your attention away from yourself and prioritizing others' needs without devaluing yourself.

Interestingly, our liberation from anger is rooted in humble reliance on divine grace, not in our own good behavior. Your value comes solely from your connection to God, which reflects genuine humility. As Timothy Keller suggests, humility involves surrendering control and fully depending on God.

The Transformative Power of Grace

Understanding and embodying grace can profoundly change how you interact with others. When you truly grasp the depth of forgiveness you've received, you're more likely to extend that same grace to others.

Recognizing your own shortcomings and the vast grace you've received can lead to a significant decrease in your tendency to harshly criticize others and cling to resentment. It's about acknowledging that you, too, have been forgiven, which can inspire you to forgive others more readily.

Practical Steps for Living an Unoffendable Life

So, how can you put these biblical teachings into practice? Here are some practical steps:

1. Start each day by expressing gratitude for God's forgiveness. This can positively influence your outlook and affect every interaction throughout your day.

2. Interact with others knowing that you've been forgiven. Let this awareness shape your responses, prompting you to extend forgiveness instead of harboring resentment.

3. When you feel angry, pause and reflect. Is your irritation warranted, or is it just an instinctive reaction? Choose to respond with grace whenever possible.

4. Cultivate patience, empathy, and a predisposition towards forgiveness. Let go of bitter feelings and foster understanding, relying on spiritual guidance and adopting an outlook that values peace.

5. Focus on serving and loving others rather than seeking personal validation. By prioritizing others' needs over your own, you can reduce the chances of feeling offended and increase your capacity for empathy and service.

Remember, choosing to be "unoffendable" is a radical stance that goes against both our natural inclinations and societal expectations. It requires profound humility and a strong dependence on God. But by embracing this perspective, you can set yourself apart in a culture that often holds onto grievances, attracting others through your ability to love and serve in ways that transcend typical human behavior.

In the end, living an unoffendable life is about cultivating a deep gratitude for God's grace, letting go of anger, and prioritizing the needs of others over your own interests. It's a challenging path, but one that can lead to a life filled with peace, forgiveness, and meaningful relationships.