Biblical Answer

Controlling Your Temper as a Christian

As a Christian, you may struggle with controlling your temper. However, this is not a battle you have to face alone. The Bible offers guidance and wisdom on how to manage anger and develop self-control. One of the first steps is to acknowledge the seriousness of anger and its potential consequences. Ephesians 4:31 commands us to "get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice." This is not a suggestion, but a command from God. We must take this command seriously and seek to understand why anger is such a destructive force in our lives.

The Role of Self-Reflection and Prayer

To control your temper, you need to develop self-reflection and prayer habits. The Lord's Prayer (Matthew 6:9-13) can be a helpful guide in meditating on your anger and seeking God's help in managing it. As you pray, ask God to "temper your anger with patience and love" (Psalm 4:4). This means that instead of venting your anger, you should express it constructively to God and others. This requires discipline and self-control, but it is essential for developing a peaceful and loving heart. Andrew Murray noted that the "great secret to a peaceful life" is to "get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger" (Ephesians 4:31). This is not just a suggestion, but a command from God that requires our obedience.

The Importance of Self-Discipline

Self-discipline is essential for controlling your temper. As children, we were taught to be disciplined, and as adults, we need to continue this practice. If you don't discipline yourself, you will ruin your entire personal life for God. God is not actively involved with our natural life as long as we are not willing to submit to His guidance and control. Self-control is the skill of saying no to sinful desires, even when it hurts. It requires us to say no to anger and instead choose to love and forgive others, even when they wrong us. By practicing self-discipline and seeking God's help, we can develop the self-control we need to manage our anger and live a peaceful and loving life.