Angry words

A soft answer turns away wrath,

But a harsh word stirs up anger.

Proverbs 15:1 NKJV

David Jeremiah tweeted this and I thought it was perfect as we close our week of prayer for the healing of an angry heart:
 "Our world is filled with angry words, and if we're not careful, it's angry spirit can seep into our marriages, homes, and churches. With the help of the Holy Spirit, we can remain calm in angry situations and end up solving much more than an argument is capable of."

Pressing anger

For pressing milk produces curds, 

pressing the nose produces blood, and 

pressing anger produces strife.

Proverbs 30:33 ESV

Talk it over

“You shall not hate your brother in your heart, 

but you shall reason frankly with your neighbor, 

lest you incur sin because of him. 

You shall not take vengeance or bear a grudge 

against the sons of your own people, 

but you shall love your neighbor as yourself: 

I am the Lord.

Leviticus 19:17-18 ESV

     I get very frustrated with people who get angry or hold a grudge when they never attempt to talk it over with the person. We conjure up situations in our minds that are twice as bad as what would really happen if we just were open and honest with the person causing us grief. If that doesn't work, though, talk it over with a friend. Sometimes, just getting the situation out in the open helps to unburden our hearts. And, of course, pray about it. Ask God for guidance, strength, patience, a softened heart. He hears you and will help you always.

Slow to anger

Know this, my beloved brothers: 

let every person be quick to hear, 

slow to speak, 

slow to anger;

James 1:19 ESV

I think the world would be such a better place if everyone followed this advice.