Be Angry, and Do Not Sin

Do Not Let the Sun Go Down on Your Wrath

Anger is a natural human emotion—one that we all experience at some point in our lives. But how we handle anger determines whether it leads to sin or righteousness. In Ephesians 4:26, the Apostle Paul gives an important directive:

“Be angry, and do not sin”: do not let the sun go down on your wrath. (Ephesians 4:26, NKJV)

This verse highlights two key principles: first, that anger in itself is not a sin, and second, that we must resolve our anger quickly to prevent it from leading us into sinful behavior. In this article, we will explore the biblical meaning of this passage, how Jesus handled anger, and practical steps for dealing with anger in a way that honors God.

Understanding Ephesians 4:26 in Context

To fully grasp the meaning of Ephesians 4:26, we must look at the broader passage. Paul wrote Ephesians as a letter to the early church in Ephesus, instructing believers on how to live as followers of Christ. In the verses surrounding Ephesians 4:26, Paul discusses putting off the “old self” and putting on the “new self” in Christ:

“…put off, concerning your former conduct, the old man which grows corrupt according to the deceitful lusts, and be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and that you put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness.” (Ephesians 4:22-24, NKJV)

In this context, Paul acknowledges that anger is a natural emotion but warns against allowing it to control us. Instead, we are to handle anger in a way that aligns with our new identity in Christ.

Is Anger a Sin?

One common misconception among Christians is that anger itself is sinful. However, the Bible provides multiple examples where anger is expressed righteously.

Examples of Righteous Anger in the Bible

Jesus Cleansing the Temple – In Matthew 21:12-13, Jesus enters the temple and finds people misusing it for commerce. He overturns tables and drives out the money changers, declaring: “My house shall be called a house of prayer,’ but you have made it a ‘den of thieves.’” (Matthew 21:13, NKJV) Jesus’ anger was justified because it was rooted in a zeal for God’s holiness.
God’s Righteous Anger – Throughout the Old Testament, God expresses anger toward sin and injustice. For instance, in Psalm 7:11, we read: “God is a just judge, and God is angry with the wicked every day.” (Psalm 7:11, NKJV)

These examples show that anger is not inherently wrong. However, human anger often turns into sin when it is motivated by pride, selfishness, or a desire for revenge.

How Anger Becomes Sinful

While anger itself is not a sin, it can easily lead to sinful actions if not handled correctly. The Bible warns us about the dangers of uncontrolled anger:

Anger Leads to Sin – “For the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God.” (James 1:20, NKJV)
Anger Can Give the Devil a Foothold – “Nor give place to the devil.” (Ephesians 4:27, NKJV)
Anger Leads to Destruction – “A wrathful man stirs up strife, but he who is slow to anger allays contention.” (Proverbs 15:18, NKJV)

This is why Paul instructs believers not to let the sun go down while they are still angry. Lingering anger turns into resentment, bitterness, and unforgiveness—giving the enemy an opportunity to wreak havoc in our hearts.

How to Deal with Anger Biblically

1. Acknowledge Your Anger

Denying or suppressing anger can be just as harmful as uncontrolled rage. Instead, acknowledge it and bring it before God in prayer. Psalm 4:4 echoes the message of Ephesians 4:26:

“Be angry, and do not sin. Meditate within your heart on your bed, and be still.” (Psalm 4:4, NKJV)

Take time to process your emotions before reacting.

2. Seek Reconciliation Quickly

Paul warns against letting anger linger overnight. When we hold onto anger, it festers and hardens our hearts. Jesus emphasized the importance of reconciliation:

“Therefore, if you bring your gift to the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar, and go your way. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift.” (Matthew 5:23-24, NKJV)

If you have conflict with someone, seek peace as soon as possible.

3. Choose Forgiveness Over Bitterness

Forgiveness is essential for dealing with anger. Ephesians 4:31-32 advises:

“Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice. And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:31-32, NKJV)

Holding onto anger only harms us. Forgiveness frees us from the burden of resentment.

4. Practice Self-Control and Patience

Proverbs teaches the value of self-control in managing anger:

“He who is slow to wrath has great understanding, but he who is impulsive exalts folly.” (Proverbs 14:29, NKJV)

Before reacting in anger, pause, pray, and ask God for wisdom.

5. Let God’s Peace Rule Your Heart

Ultimately, we must surrender our anger to God and allow His peace to rule in our hearts:

“And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful.” (Colossians 3:15, NKJV)

When we rely on the Holy Spirit, we can respond to anger in a way that brings healing rather than harm.

Conclusion: Handling Anger with God’s Wisdom

Ephesians 4:26 is a powerful reminder that anger is not inherently sinful, but it must be handled with wisdom. Rather than allowing anger to lead us into sin, we should use it as an opportunity for growth, reconciliation, and deeper trust in God. By acknowledging our anger, seeking reconciliation, choosing forgiveness, practicing self-control, and allowing God’s peace to rule our hearts, we can respond in a way that honors Christ. So the next time anger rises within you, remember: Be angry, but do not sin. And before the sun sets, choose grace over grudges, peace over wrath, and love over bitterness.

Additional Bible Verses on Anger

Proverbs 19:11 – “The discretion of a man makes him slow to anger, and his glory is to overlook a transgression.”
Ecclesiastes 7:9 – “Do not hasten in your spirit to be angry, for anger rests in the bosom of fools.”
Romans 12:19 – “Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, ‘Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,’ says the Lord.”

May God give us wisdom and strength to handle anger in a way that glorifies Him! 🙏