There’s more to anger than a cartoon character turning red with steam coming out of their ears.

Anger is powerful, and if we’re honest, something most of us wrestle with more often than we’d like to admit.

So what is anger, really?
Webster defines anger as “a strong feeling of displeasure and usually of antagonism.” But that definition only scratches the surface.

When Anger Looks Different

Jase Robertson from Duck Dynasty shared with I Am Second about his own struggle with anger. It’s ironic because he’s known for being calm and easygoing. But that peace didn’t come naturally, it came when he met Jesus.

“Where I found joy is me saying, ‘This is not going to work,’ and then God using it,” Jase said.

That’s the difference Jesus makes. Our emotions don’t define us: but how we respond to them can. That’s why Scripture calls us to “take every thought captive” (2 Corinthians 10:5).

Sometimes anger shows up in ways we don’t expect. Like pettiness, gossip, or like Jase’s case… pride.

What the Bible Says About Anger

Be slow to anger.
James 1:19–20 reminds us, “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.”

Anger isn’t always wrong, but rushing into it can lead to regret.

Don’t let anger linger.
Ephesians 4:26 warns, “Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold.”

When we hold onto anger, it grows roots. And those roots can harden our hearts before we even realize it.

1. Anger ≠ Sin

Anger itself isn’t sinful. Even Jesus got angry when He saw injustice. Remember when He flipped the tables in the temple? (Matthew 21:12–13)

The problem isn’t the feeling, it’s the reaction. What do we do when anger rises? Do we lash out, or do we let God guide us through it?

Pro Tip: Next time you feel that rush of frustration, pause and pray, “Lord, help me see this the way You do.”

2. Just Because You’re Angry for Someone Else Doesn’t Make It Justified

We often justify our anger when it’s on behalf of someone we love.
“If you hurt my friend, I’ll hurt you.”
“If you mess with my family, I’ll make sure you regret it.”

That kind of loyalty feels noble, but acting out of revenge or aggression doesn’t reflect Jesus’ heart.

Even righteous anger must be led by righteousness. There’s a way to defend others in love: with wisdom, peace, and truth.

Proverbs 29:11 says, “Fools give full vent to their rage, but the wise bring calm in the end.”

Standing up for someone doesn’t have to mean “fighting for them.” It can mean praying for them, comforting them, or helping them forgive.

3. Getting to the Root

When anger, sadness, or fear rises up, try asking:

“What’s the root of this feeling?”

Is it hurt? Fear of losing control? Feeling unseen or misunderstood?

Those roots often go deeper than the moment itself. And sometimes, you can’t see them clearly on your own. Talk to God about it. Open up to a trusted friend, pastor, or counselor.

Psalm 139:23–24 is a beautiful prayer for this:

“Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.”

Don’t Be Ashamed of Your Anger

Anger doesn’t make you a bad person… it makes you human. Don’t bury it. Don’t let it control you. Bring it to the One who understands it perfectly.

If you’re ready to dig a little deeper, check out our free “Understanding Anger” 10-Minute Bible Study to help you identify the root of your anger and learn practical, biblical ways to work through it.

You don’t have to carry it alone.

Free “Understanding Anger” 10 Minute Bible Study