Anger constantly roams seeking a victim. He looks for any opening. He enrages people to do things that they would never do outside of his influence. He stirs the emotions to take control of the mind. He entices people to do his work without thinking clearly. Anger never works alone. He always brings others with him, such as violence, revenge, and bitterness. He moves quickly, tempting people to act rashly without thinking.
When anger comes your way, know that he is up to no good. Refuse his advice. Don't let him take control. Anger is never your friend. Remember, anger wants to take control of you. When you lose self-control, bad things can happen fast. "And don't sin by letting anger gain control over you" (Ephesians 4:26, NLT).
When anger comes your way, stop and think. Acting without thinking can multiply your problems. Saying words that you should not, can bring serious damage to important relationships. "Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander" (Ephesians 4:31, NLT). Once those words are spoken, they cannot be taken back. Think before you speak.
Anger's best opportunity, to take control over us, is when someone hurts us in word or deed. We become vulnerable to anger's attack. Unresolved anger leads to bitterness. It poisons our minds and endangers our health. Choose to forgive, and "forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you" (Ephesians 4:32, NLT). Anger flees in the face of forgiveness.
