40+Bible Verses About Controlling Anger/Guide [2024]

“Anger is a choice; choose to be calm.”

Anger is a normal emotion that everyone experiences at some point in life. However, it can become a problem when it leads to harmful actions or hurtful words.

The Bible offers numerous verses that provide guidance on how to manage anger in a constructive way. By following these teachings, we can learn to respond to our emotions with patience, kindness, and understanding.

In this article, we will explore 45 powerful scriptures that address anger and how to control it. Each scripture is accompanied by a brief explanation and a prayer to help you reflect on its message. By incorporating these verses into your life, you can find peace and strength to manage your emotions effectively.

1. James 1:19-20

These verses remind us to be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry. This approach can help prevent misunderstandings and conflicts.

Scripture:
“Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.” (James 1:19-20)

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, help me to listen more and speak less. Guide me in moments of anger to find peace in Your wisdom. Amen.

2. Proverbs 15:1

This verse highlights the importance of a gentle response. A soft answer can calm anger and prevent escalation in heated situations.

Scripture:
“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” (Proverbs 15:1)

Prayer:
Lord, teach me to respond gently even when anger rises. Let my words reflect Your love and peace. Amen.

3. Ephesians 4:26-27

This passage encourages us to be aware of our anger but not let it control us. It’s okay to feel angry, but we must not let it lead us to sin.

Scripture:
“In your anger do not sin: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold.” (Ephesians 4:26-27)

Prayer:
God, help me to resolve my anger before the day ends. I don’t want to give the enemy any power over my heart. Amen.

4. Proverbs 14:29

This verse teaches us that patience is key to controlling anger. A patient person demonstrates strength and self-control.

Scripture:
“Whoever is patient has great understanding, but one who is quick-tempered displays folly.” (Proverbs 14:29)

Prayer:
Dear Lord, grant me patience in difficult times. Help me understand that my emotions do not define me. Amen.

5. Colossians 3:8

Here, we are reminded to let go of anger, rage, and malice. Embracing compassion and kindness allows us to cultivate positive relationships.

Scripture:
“But now you must rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips.” (Colossians 3:8)

Prayer:
Father, help me to release all anger and embrace kindness. I seek to speak only words that build up, not tear down. Amen.

6. Psalm 37:8-9

These verses encourage us to refrain from anger and refrain from worry. Trusting in God’s justice can ease our frustration.

Scripture:
“Refrain from anger and turn from wrath; do not fret—it leads only to evil. For those who are evil will be destroyed, but those who hope in the Lord will inherit the land.” (Psalm 37:8-9)

Prayer:
Lord, I surrender my anger to You. Help me trust in Your perfect timing and justice. Amen.

7. Ecclesiastes 7:9

This verse warns against letting anger control our hearts. Being aware of our feelings can help us stay grounded.

Scripture:
“Do not be quickly provoked in your spirit, for anger resides in the lap of fools.” (Ecclesiastes 7:9)

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, guard my heart against quick anger. Fill me with wisdom to respond thoughtfully. Amen.

8. Proverbs 16:32

This verse emphasizes that self-control is more powerful than physical strength. It encourages us to take control of our emotions.

Scripture:
“Better a patient person than a warrior, one with self-control than one who takes a city.” (Proverbs 16:32)

Prayer:
God, help me become a person of self-control. Teach me to handle my emotions in a way that honors You. Amen.

9. Galatians 5:22-23

The fruits of the Spirit include self-control, which is vital for managing anger. These qualities help us respond to challenges with grace.

Scripture:
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” (Galatians 5:22-23)

Prayer:
Lord, fill me with Your Spirit so that I may exhibit self-control and kindness in my interactions. Amen.

10. 1 Peter 3:9

This verse encourages us to respond to insults with kindness instead of anger. Choosing a compassionate response can change the atmosphere.

Scripture:
“Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.” (1 Peter 3:9)

Prayer:
Father, give me the strength to respond to negativity with kindness. Help me to break the cycle of anger. Amen.

11. Proverbs 19:11

Here, we learn that wisdom can help us overlook offenses. A wise person understands that holding onto anger only harms themselves.

Scripture:
“A person’s wisdom yields patience; it is to one’s glory to overlook an offense.” (Proverbs 19:11)

Prayer:
God, grant me the wisdom to let go of small offenses and focus on what truly matters. Amen.

12. Matthew 5:22

Jesus teaches us the seriousness of anger. Even harboring anger in our hearts can lead to severe consequences.

Scripture:
“But I tell you that anyone who is angry with a brother or sister will be subject to judgment.” (Matthew 5:22)

Prayer:
Lord, help me to recognize the weight of my anger and guide me toward reconciliation. Amen.

13. Proverbs 22:24-25

This passage advises against associating with hot-tempered individuals. Their influence can lead us to act in anger.

Scripture:
“Do not make friends with a hot-tempered person, do not associate with one easily angered, or you may learn their ways and get yourself ensnared.” (Proverbs 22:24-25)

Prayer:
Father, guide my friendships and help me seek relationships that promote peace and understanding. Amen.

14. Psalm 30:5

This verse reminds us that anger may be a part of life, but joy comes in the morning. There is hope beyond our feelings of anger.

Scripture:
“For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime; weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning.” (Psalm 30:5)

Prayer:
Lord, thank You for the promise of joy after sorrow. Help me remember that my anger is temporary. Amen.

15. Romans 12:19

This verse encourages us to leave vengeance to God. When we feel angry, we can trust God to handle the situation.

Scripture:
“Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord.” (Romans 12:19)

Prayer:
God, help me to release my desire for revenge. I trust in Your justice and timing. Amen.

16. Proverbs 10:12

This verse teaches that love can cover anger and conflict. Choosing love can lead to reconciliation.

Scripture:
“Hatred stirs up conflict, but love covers over all wrongs.” (Proverbs 10:12)

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, fill my heart with love that overcomes anger. Help me forgive and restore relationships. Amen.

17. Job 36:18

This passage warns against letting anger lead us away from God’s mercy. Staying connected to God’s love can help us manage our emotions.

Scripture:
“Beware of turning to evil, which you seem to prefer to affliction.” (Job 36:18)

Prayer:
Lord, keep me focused on Your mercy and grace. Help me avoid the path of anger and bitterness. Amen.

18. Proverbs 3:5-6

This verse encourages us to trust in God, especially when we feel angry or confused. He will guide our paths and help us respond wisely.

Scripture:
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” (Proverbs 3:5-6)

Prayer:
God, I trust in Your guidance during moments of anger. Help me to lean on You for wisdom. Amen.

Bible Verses About Science 

19. Psalm 4:4

This verse emphasizes the importance of self-reflection. Taking a moment to reflect can prevent angry outbursts.

Scripture:
“In your anger do not sin; when you are on your beds, search your hearts and be silent.” (Psalm 4:4)

Prayer:
Father, teach me to pause and reflect when anger arises. Help me find peace in silence. Amen.

20. Lamentations 3:22-23

This scripture reminds us of God’s faithfulness. Even when we feel anger, His mercy is always present.

Scripture:
“Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” (Lamentations 3:22-23)

Prayer:
Lord, thank You for Your unwavering love. Help me to embrace Your mercy each day. Amen.

21. Matthew 7:1-2

This passage warns against judging others while harboring anger. It reminds us to focus on our own actions and attitudes.

Scripture:
“Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” (Matthew 7:1-2)

Prayer:
God, help me to focus on my own heart before judging others. Teach me to respond with love instead of anger. Amen.

22. 1 Corinthians 13:4-5

This well-known scripture highlights the nature of love, which is patient and kind. Love is the antidote to anger.

Scripture:
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.” (1 Corinthians 13:4-5)

Prayer:
Lord, fill my heart with Your love, that I may be patient and kind in all situations. Amen.

23. 1 Timothy 2:8

This verse encourages us to pray with clean hands and a pure heart, free from anger and disputes.

Scripture:
“Therefore I want the men everywhere to pray, lifting up holy hands without anger or disputing.” (1 Timothy 2:8)

Prayer:
God, help me approach You in prayer with a pure heart. Teach me to release my anger in Your presence. Amen.

24. Psalm 37:1-2

These verses remind us not to be consumed by anger towards others. Trusting in God’s plan helps us find peace.

Scripture:
“Do not fret because of those who are evil or be envious of those who do wrong; for like the grass they will soon wither, like green plants they will soon die away.” (Psalm 37:1-2)

Prayer:
Father, help me to focus on Your goodness and not the actions of others. I trust in Your plan for my life. Amen.

25. Matthew 5:39

In this verse, Jesus teaches us to turn the other cheek rather than retaliate. Choosing non-violence can be a powerful response to anger.

Scripture:
“But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also.” (Matthew 5:39)

Prayer:
Lord, help me to respond with grace instead of anger when wronged. Give me the strength to choose peace. Amen.

26. Proverbs 15:18

This scripture points out that a hot-tempered person stirs up conflict, while a patient person calms disagreements.

Scripture:
“A hot-tempered person stirs up conflict, but the one who is patient calms a quarrel.” (Proverbs 15:18)

Prayer:
God, grant me the patience to calm conflicts rather than escalate them. Help me be a peacemaker. Amen.

27. Ephesians 4:31-32

This passage encourages us to get rid of bitterness and anger, replacing it with kindness and forgiveness.

Scripture:
“Get rid of all bitterness, rage, and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:31-32)

Prayer:
Father, help me to replace bitterness with kindness. Teach me to forgive as You have forgiven me. Amen.

28. Proverbs 29:22

This verse warns against the dangers of anger, suggesting that it can lead to trouble.

Scripture:
“An angry person stirs up conflict, and a hot-tempered person commits many sins.” (Proverbs 29:22)

Prayer:
Lord, help me recognize the destructive nature of anger. Guide me to seek peace instead of conflict. Amen.

29. 2 Timothy 1:7

This verse reminds us that God has given us a spirit of power, love, and self-discipline. We can overcome anger through His strength.

Scripture:
“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” (2 Timothy 1:7)

Prayer:
God, fill me with Your power and love. Help me use self-discipline to control my emotions. Amen.

30. Micah 6:8

This verse emphasizes the importance of acting justly, loving mercy, and walking humbly with God. It encourages us to respond to anger with humility.

Scripture:
“He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” (Micah 6:8)

Prayer:
Lord, teach me to walk humbly and show mercy, even when anger arises. Help me reflect Your character. Amen.

31. Proverbs 11:17

This verse illustrates that kindness benefits us while cruelty harms us. Choosing kindness over anger is always a wise decision.

Scripture:
“Those who are kind benefit themselves, but the cruel bring ruin on themselves.” (Proverbs 11:17)

Prayer:
Father, help me choose kindness in every situation. I seek to benefit myself and others through love. Amen.

32. 1 John 4:20-21

This passage reminds us that love for God must be reflected in our love for others. Anger cannot coexist with true love.

Scripture:
“Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen. And he has given us this command: Anyone who loves God must also love their brother and sister.” (1 John 4:20-21)

Prayer:
God, help me to love others as You love me. I don’t want anger to hinder my relationship with You. Amen.

33. 2 Corinthians 10:5

This verse emphasizes taking every thought captive to Christ. Managing our thoughts can help control our anger.

Scripture:
“We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” (2 Corinthians 10:5)

Prayer:
Lord, help me take my thoughts captive and align them with Your truth. Teach me to control my anger through Your Word. Amen.

34. Luke 6:31

This verse teaches us the golden rule: treat others as we want to be treated. Responding to anger with empathy can lead to healing.

Scripture:
“Do to others as you would have them do to you.” (Luke 6:31)

Prayer:
Father, help me to treat others with the kindness I desire. May I respond to anger with empathy and love. Amen.

35. Isaiah 41:10

This scripture reassures us that God is with us in times of fear and anger. We can find strength in His presence.

Scripture:
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” (Isaiah 41:10)

Prayer:
Lord, thank You for being with me in my struggles. Help me to find strength and comfort in Your presence. Amen.

36. Romans 8:28

This verse reassures us that God works for the good of those who love Him, even in moments of anger. Trusting His plan can help us find peace.

Scripture:
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28)

Prayer:
God, help me trust in Your goodness, even when I feel angry. Remind me that You are always working for my good. Amen.

37. 2 Thessalonians 3:16

This scripture encourages us to seek peace and quietness in our lives, especially when anger threatens to take over.

Scripture:
“Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.” (2 Thessalonians 3:16)

Prayer:
Lord, grant me Your peace in times of anger. Help me to find stillness and comfort in Your presence. Amen.

38. Philippians 4:6-7

This verse encourages us to bring our worries to God through prayer, reminding us that His peace surpasses all understanding.

Scripture:
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7)

Prayer:
God, help me to bring my anger to You in prayer. I trust that Your peace will guard my heart and mind. Amen.

39. John 14:27

This scripture reminds us that Jesus gives us peace, not as the world gives. Trusting Him can calm our hearts in times of anger.

Scripture:
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (John 14:27)

Prayer:
Lord, thank You for the peace You offer. Help me to accept it and release my anger to You. Amen.

40. James 1:19-20

This passage encourages us to be quick to listen and slow to become angry. Practicing active listening can help defuse anger.

Scripture:
“My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.” (James 1:19-20)

Prayer:
Father, help me to listen before reacting. Teach me to choose my words wisely and respond with grace. Amen.

41. Matthew 11:28-30

This verse invites us to come to Jesus when we are weary and burdened. He offers rest and peace amidst our struggles.

Scripture:
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28-30)

Prayer:
Lord, I come to You with my anger and burdens. Help me find rest and peace in Your presence. Amen.

42. Hebrews 12:14

This scripture encourages us to strive for peace with everyone. Seeking harmony can help us manage our anger.

Scripture:
“Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness, no one will see the Lord.” (Hebrews 12:14)

Prayer:
Father, help me seek peace with those around me. Teach me to let go of anger and pursue harmony. Amen.

43. Galatians 5:22-23

These verses highlight the fruit of the Spirit, including self-control. Practicing self-control helps us respond to anger wisely.

Scripture:
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things, there is no law.” (Galatians 5:22-23)

Prayer:
God, help me cultivate the fruit of the Spirit in my life. Teach me self-control, especially when anger arises. Amen.

44. Psalm 119:165

This verse reminds us that great peace comes from loving God’s law. Finding joy in His Word can help us manage our anger.

Scripture:
“Great peace have those who love your law, and nothing can make them stumble.” (Psalm 119:165)

Prayer:
Lord, help me find peace in Your Word. Teach me to love and embrace Your teachings. Amen.

45. 1 Peter 3:9

This scripture encourages us not to repay evil with evil. Responding to negativity with kindness can diffuse anger.

Scripture:
“Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.” (1 Peter 3:9)

Prayer:
Father, help me respond to negativity with blessings. Teach me to rise above anger and offer kindness. Amen.

Answers to Key Questions About Controlling Anger

1. How can scripture help with anger management?

Scripture provides wisdom and guidance on how to handle anger in a healthy way. It encourages prayer, self-reflection, and reliance on God’s peace, helping individuals to respond with love rather than anger.

2. Are there specific prayers for anger?

Yes, many of the scriptures in this post are paired with prayers that specifically address anger. These prayers ask for God’s help in managing anger, seeking peace, and responding to challenges with grace.

3. Can I personalize these scriptures and prayers?

Absolutely! Feel free to adapt the prayers to fit your personal situation or feelings. Adding your own words can make the prayers more meaningful and relevant to your life.

4. How often should I meditate on these scriptures?

Regular meditation on these scriptures can reinforce their teachings. Consider reading them daily or during moments of anger to remind yourself of God’s guidance and peace.

5. What if I struggle to control my anger even after prayer?

It’s okay to seek help. Talking to a trusted friend, counselor, or spiritual advisor can provide additional support. Remember that growth takes time, and it’s important to be patient with yourself.

6. How can I incorporate these scriptures into my daily life?

You can keep a journal, create flashcards, or use a prayer app to incorporate these scriptures into your routine. Reflecting on them during quiet time, prayer, or moments of frustration can help you respond with peace and understanding.

Conclusion

Anger is a natural emotion, but it’s how we respond to it that truly matters. The scriptures and prayers shared in this post provide a solid foundation for managing anger in a way that honors God and fosters peace.

By turning to these verses, you can find comfort and strength in times of frustration. Embracing the wisdom found in God’s Word, along with heartfelt prayers, allows us to cultivate patience, self-control, and love. Remember, seeking God’s peace transforms our hearts and empowers us to respond to anger with grace. May you find hope and healing as you journey through your emotions, trusting in God’s everlasting peace.