What to Say to Those Who Are Angry

It’s hard to browse the internet and not encounter angry people. Just open almost any social media forum, and you can find people furious with each other—with people whose faces they’ve never even seen. No matter what the topic, people take sides in polar extremes, viciously attacking opposing positions with words you’d never want your kids to hear. The hatred is deep and dark. 

Proverbs says that fools give full vent to their anger. Without any hint of restraint, they allow all the evil inside to come flowing out of their mouths. But Scripture says the kindness of the Lord leads us to repentance. In Christ, it is possible to speak truth with gentleness and kindness, confident that God’s Spirit will produce the change we want to see, not the effectiveness of our “argument.” 

If we want to create a culture of peace and kindness around us, we need to start with repentance of any harmful words we’ve contributed in our homes, workplaces, relationships, and social media. Then we can ask God’s Spirit to produce His fruit and fill us with the grace we need to show restraint in the heat of the moment, and wisdom to speak calming, gentle, and powerful words of truth at the right time in humility and love. 

Life-Giving Words for Those Who Are Angry 

Be angry and do not sin. Don’t let the sun go down on your anger. EPHESIANS 4:26  

Even though things are still a little tense,  I’d love to talk this out with you if we can do it calmly. I don’t want any misunderstanding between us. 

A gentle answer turns away anger, but a harsh word stirs up wrath. PROVERBS 15:1  

I can see you’re upset. What can I do to help you right now? 

“Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.” LUKE 6:37  

I’ve noticed that when everyone else posted critical and rude arguments online, your comments were always positive and insightful. I really appreciate it! 

Do not be conquered by evil, but conquer evil with good. ROMANS 12:21  

I am sorry you feel that way, but I wish you the best.