So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath; for the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God. James 1:19-20, NKJV
A Prayer for Anger Control
Think about that sharp, biting anger that shoots up anytime that family member pokes one of your buttons. Maybe you don’t explode, but it’s still there, simmering beneath the surface.
As you’re trying to brush it off, you’re probably wondering how to control your attitude and anger—it’s something we all want to know.
And while we’re not going to pretend like there’s one magic answer to resolve all your problems, we will share that James 1:19–20 has us convinced that our unhealthy anger in those moments is only going to lead us away from God’s plan for us.
Human anger doesn’t often produce God’s best in us, but we do think that God has a plan for developing our character through those times—if we just invite him into them.
So next time you feel anger’s hot flash, and get the sense it’s the type of anger that isn’t producing God’s character in you, we hope this Scripture and prayer will give you some practical words to invite God into that moment. Here’s a prayer for anger control:
Prayer: God of peace and patience, help me slow down and invite You to guide both my character and conduct. Father, grant me a grace-filled perspective toward the people and circumstances that have set me off. Show me the right way to walk through this, letting go of the quick anger that tempts me, and speaking with gentleness. Help me to accept that the resolution is Yours to unfold. Amen.
Note after sharing the devotional: I have begun praying for God to remove whatever it is that causes me to rage when certain things push my buttons. I feel it now in my body when this happens, and that's not good, especially not for my longevity's sake, let alone eternity (not only does the wrath of man not produce the righteousness of God (James 1:20) but also that the works of the flesh are evident, which include outbursts of wrath (Galatians 5:19,20)). I can't afford to get angry, not if I want to live a long time:
Who is the man who desires life,
And loves many days, that he may see good?
Keep your tongue from evil,
And your lips from speaking deceit.
Depart from evil and do good;
Seek peace and pursue it.