Have you ever felt your anger rising in a heated conversation, your heart pounding as frustration takes over? Anger is a natural human emotion, but when left unchecked it can damage relationships, cloud our judgment, and even wound our own souls.
Thankfully, the Bible speaks directly to this struggle, offering timeless wisdom and practical guidance. In this post, we’ll explore ten key KJV scriptures on dealing with anger, unpack their deeper meaning, and discover how to apply these truths in our daily lives—so that, by God’s grace, we can respond with self-control and reflect His peace.
Key Bible Verses
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Proverbs 15:1 (KJV): “A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.”
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Ephesians 4:26–27 (KJV): “Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath: Neither give place to the devil.”
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James 1:19–20 (KJV): “Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath: For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God.”
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Proverbs 14:29 (KJV): “He that is slow to wrath is of great understanding: but he that is hasty of spirit exalteth folly.”
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Ecclesiastes 7:9 (KJV): “Be not hasty in thy spirit to be angry: for anger resteth in the bosom of fools.”
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Psalm 37:8 (KJV): “Cease from anger, and forsake wrath: fret not thyself in any wise to do evil.”
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Colossians 3:8 (KJV): “But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth.”
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Matthew 5:22 (KJV): “But I say unto you, That whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment…”
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Proverbs 22:24–25 (KJV): “Make no friendship with an angry man; and with a furious man thou shalt not go: Lest thou learn his ways, and get a snare to thy soul.”
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Proverbs 19:11 (KJV): “The discretion of a man deferreth his anger; and it is his glory to pass over a transgression.”
Deeper Dive: Understanding the Verses
1. Proverbs 15:1 (KJV)
A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.
Here Solomon shows the power of gentle speech. A calm, measured reply can diffuse even the hottest tempers, while harsh words feed the fire. When we choose kindness over retort, we create space for understanding and reconciliation. Practicing this soft response—especially when provoked—reinforces self-control and honors God’s call to love our neighbor (Matthew 5:44).
2. Ephesians 4:26–27 (KJV)
Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath: Neither give place to the devil.
Paul acknowledges that anger itself isn’t sinful—but warns against letting it fester. Unresolved anger hardens our hearts and can open the door to bitterness. By addressing hurt quickly—through honest conversation, prayer, or humble confession—we prevent resentment from taking root and keep our fellowship with God and others unbroken.
3. James 1:19–20 (KJV)
Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath…
James connects listening and patience with righteous living. Swift to hear means truly valuing others’ perspectives. Slow to speak reminds us to weigh our words. Slow to wrath highlights restraint in our emotions. This triad guards against impulsive anger and aligns our hearts with godly wisdom, fostering peace in our relationships.
4. Proverbs 14:29 (KJV)
He that is slow to wrath is of great understanding: but he that is hasty of spirit exalteth folly.
Wisdom and patience go hand in hand. A person who controls their temper demonstrates insight into human nature and God’s purposes. In contrast, quick-tempered reactions often lead to regret and division. By pausing and reflecting—perhaps through prayer or journaling—we cultivate understanding and avoid the folly of rash anger.
5. Ecclesiastes 7:9 (KJV)
Be not hasty in thy spirit to be angry: for anger resteth in the bosom of fools.
Solomon warns that hasty anger lingers, infecting our thoughts and actions. Quick-trigger responses show a lack of self-control. When provoked, stepping away to pray, meditate on Scripture, or simply take deep breaths helps emotions settle. This reflective pause protects us from carrying anger’s poison in our hearts.
6. Psalm 37:8 (KJV)
Cease from anger, and forsake wrath: fret not thyself in any wise to do evil.
David encourages an active release of anger and a refusal to let it lead to sin. “Fret not thyself” implies an intentional choice to refuse resentment. Replacing bitter thoughts with worship—singing psalms or speaking God’s promises—reorients our focus and breaks anger’s grip.
7. Colossians 3:8 (KJV)
But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy…
Paul urges believers to “put off” old, harmful habits as one discards soiled clothing. Anger is listed alongside malice and abusive speech. By consciously exchanging these attitudes for Christlike virtues—compassion, kindness, humility—we “put on” a new identity rooted in love (Colossians 3:12).
8. Matthew 5:22 (KJV)
…whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment.
Jesus raises the bar by addressing anger in the heart. Unjustified anger, contempt, or insult toward others invites divine warning. This requires us to examine motives—distinguishing righteous indignation from selfish pride—and to pursue reconciliation swiftly, modeling the mercy we ourselves have received.
9. Proverbs 22:24–25 (KJV)
Make no friendship with an angry man… Lest thou learn his ways, and get a snare to thy soul.
Solomon cautions against close association with those consumed by wrath. While we’re called to love and minister to the angry, we must set healthy boundaries to protect our own spiritual well-being. Surrounding ourselves with gentle, self-controlled friends encourages our own growth in peace.
10. Proverbs 19:11 (KJV)
The discretion of a man deferreth his anger; and it is his glory to pass over a transgression.
Wise discretion enables us to delay or overlook offenses, reflecting God’s own forgiveness. By choosing to “pass over” minor wrongs, we maintain peace and honor, rather than fueling conflict. This deliberate mercy strengthens relationships and showcases Christ’s grace through us.
Practical Application / Why This Matters
Together, these scriptures form a roadmap for managing anger in a way that honors God and preserves healthy relationships. They remind us that anger—while natural—must be stewarded with wisdom: answering gently, resolving conflicts quickly, listening well, and intentionally “putting off” old habits.
To apply these truths:
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Memorize key verses (e.g., Proverbs 15:1, James 1:19) and meditate on them when you feel anger rising.
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Pause and pray before responding—ask the Holy Spirit to guide your words and calm your heart.
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Journal or seek counsel when you encounter recurring triggers, uncovering deeper hurts that fuel your anger.
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Build a support network of friends and mentors who exemplify patience and can pray with you in moments of struggle.
Remember, progress takes time. Celebrate small wins—like choosing a soft answer—and lean on God’s grace when you stumble. As you grow in self-control, you’ll reflect Christ’s peace more fully, becoming a beacon of His love to those around you.
