Biblical Answer

Is it a sin to be angry?

The question of whether it is a sin to be angry is complex and nuanced. While anger can be a sinful emotion, it is not always the case. In fact, the Bible approves of being angry under certain circumstances. For example, righteous indignation is a legitimate response to objective moral evil. However, the Bible also warns against sinful anger, which can be explosive or simmering. Both types of anger are equally harmful and require repentance and redemption through Jesus Christ. Anger is ultimately about God, revealing that we don't trust Him and becoming an opportunity to know Him better.

The Bible teaches that human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires (James 1:20). This means that responding to anger with sinful anger will not bring about the desired result. Instead, it is a sign of apathy or a lack of trust in God. To be Godlike in our anger, we must put it away (Eph 4:31; Col 3:8) and recognize that anger is between us and God. This requires self-awareness and a deep understanding of our own hearts. We must also acknowledge that anger reveals more about our own heart than it does about the other person. For example, grumbling reveals a lack of trust in God's sovereignty and provision.

Ultimately, the key to addressing anger is to bring it daily to Jesus for redemption. This requires a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and a commitment to living a life that reflects Christian values and teachings. By doing so, we can learn to trust God and respond to situations with wisdom and compassion rather than anger. This is not an easy task, but it is a necessary one for those who seek to follow God's will and live a life that honors Him. By acknowledging our anger and bringing it to Jesus, we can experience redemption and grow in our faith, becoming more like Christ in the process.