Discussion Guide
Anger can be a tricky emotion. It isn't always explosive or loud. Sometimes It shows up quietly through defensiveness, gossip, sarcasm, withdrawal, or internal resentment. Left unchecked can affect our spiritual and even physical health. Even Jesus Himself experienced the emotion of anger. Anger can function as a warning sign, alerting us to hurt, injustice, or unmet expectations. But when anger takes control, even when we feel justified, it does not lead to the righteousness God desires. This week, we’ll explore the different ways anger shows up in our lives, how we often excuse or dismiss it, and how slowing down, replacing it with God’s Word, and submitting our responses to Him can help us move from reacting inappropriately in anger to responding with wisdom, patience, and grace.
What you will need: A Bible or your Bible app, a notebook, pen, and highlighter. The verses highlighted below are linked so that you can easily access them during your study time.
Jump Start:
1. When your engine light comes on, what is your next response...?
A) Immediately panic and assume you will have to get a new car
B) Turn music up and pretend you don’t see it
C) Put a piece of tape over it
2. Read James 1:19-21. Scripture says to be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry. Which of those is hardest for you in the moment, and why? When you feel angry, are you truly listening to the other person, or are you already planning your response or defense?
3. Read James 1:22-25. Why is it easier to know what scripture says about anger than to actually apply it in real life? What are some ways anger can come out indirectly – through gossip, sarcasm, impatience, or things said behind someone’s back?
4. Read James 1:26. Why do you think James connects faith maturity so closely with controlling our words? What are some physical or emotional signals that tell you anger is taking over (racing pulse, sweating, raised voice, shutting down)?
5. Read Romans 3:23-24. How does remembering that we all fall short, change the way you view your own anger, or the anger of others? In what ways does God’s grace create space for growth instead of shame when we don’t handle anger well?
Action Step: This week, pay attention to your anger signals; physical, emotional, or behavioral. Identify one recent moment where anger led your response. Ask: What would obedience have looked like here? What can I do differently next time to apply God’s Word and not just hear it?
Optional – Deeper Dive
Read Ephesians 4:26–30. What does this passage suggest about the difference between feeling anger and allowing it to linger or take control?