Psalm 37:8 (NIV) - Refrain from anger and turn from wrath; do not fret-- it leads only to evil.

Anger is a dangerous emotion. Anger desires a response. It does not consider the consequences. It only considers itself - at all costs. It is a highway to other emotions and actions:

• Rage
• Jealousy/Envy (James 3:16; Proverbs 14:30; Proverbs 6:32-35; Proverbs 23:17)

If you ever became angry, you may have noticed the strong desire to lash out and get revenge. So what do you do about it?

1. Slow down.

James 1:19-20 (NIV) - My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, for man's anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires.

Sometimes the best response is no response. As James points out, anger does not bring about righteous living.

2. Walk away.

Staying in the situation will only tempt you to act...WALK AWAY!

3. Cool off.

Intense moments can keep you riled up for a while. Do something that will allow you settle down and see 'the big picture.' That may mean leaving the house, taking a drive, going to the store, going to a friend's house, etc.

4. Stop thinking about it.

Continuing to think about a bad situation will do nothing but keep the fire of anger kindled. It's like adding layer upon layer of pain, frustration, and offense...and believe me, once these layers harden, they're hard to remove!

2 Corinthians 10:5 (KJV) - Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ

5. Pray.

Feel free to insert prayer anywhere in the situation! For some, they may not think to pray until after they have calmed down. Pray for yourself and the other person (or persons). Forgive and repent as needed. Ask God to restore your heart and mind (and the others involved as well). Allow Him to intervene.

6. Repay with good.

Romans 12:19-21 (NIV) - Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: "It is mine to avenge; I will repay," says the Lord. On the contrary: "If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head." Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

Repaying evil with good is definitely not the world's standard, but we aren't of the world...RIGHT?! Bless those that curse you and treat you badly. Overcome evil with good...AMEN!

Heavenly Father, anger is such a dangerous emotion. Forgive me Father for my actions of _____________ (be specific). Help me to refrain from anger and keep my emotions under control. Teach me to repay evil with good and to love those that may hate me. Help those that are filled with anger and allow them to experience your peace. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray. Amen.