The phrase “Do not let the sun go down on your wrath” comes from Ephesians 4:26 (NKJV): “Be angry, and do not sin: do not let the sun go down on your wrath.” This scripture speaks directly to the human experience of anger, recognizing that while anger itself may not be a sin, holding onto it can lead us into sinful behavior. The Apostle Paul instructs believers not to let unresolved anger linger overnight. Why? Because unchecked anger opens the door to bitterness, resentment, and division — all of which damage our relationships with others and distance us from God’s peace. In essence, Paul is calling for quick reconciliation and the pursuit of unity.
The consequences of ignoring this instruction are far-reaching. When we carry anger from day to day, it festers, eventually turning into unforgiveness or even hatred. This hardens our hearts and quenches the Holy Spirit’s work in us (Ephesians 4:30-31). Anger, when not surrendered, can lead to broken friendships, cold marriages, church splits, and even violence. On a spiritual level, it hinders our prayers, clouds our judgment, and makes it difficult to hear from God. Unresolved wrath becomes spiritual poison, slowly seeping into every area of our lives and weakening our witness as Christians.
Many wars and conflicts around the world started with unresolved offenses or acts of retaliation. The Israeli-Palestinian conflict, for instance, has endured for decades — fueled by generational grievances and unhealed wounds. While deeply political and complex, it echoes the same principle: unresolved anger, left to grow, produces devastating consequences. In personal relationships, the same holds true. One bitter disagreement, if not resolved in time, can sever bonds built over years. What begins as a moment of anger can become a lifetime of regret.
As believers, Christ calls us to a higher standard — one of forgiveness, grace, and reconciliation. Jesus taught in Matthew 5:23–24 that if we are offering a gift at the altar and remember someone has something against us, we should first go and reconcile. This shows how seriously God values peace and restored relationships. Choosing to release wrath before the day ends is not weakness but spiritual maturity. It reflects the heart of God who, though just, is “slow to anger and abounding in mercy” (Psalm 103:8). To walk in His likeness, we must be peacemakers — letting go of wrath and making room for grace.
I live by His Grace. AMEN!