June 12: Slow to Anger

You didn’t even see it coming. One comment, and you were furious.

James gives three simple instructions. Be swift to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger. For the anger of man doesn’t produce the righteousness of God.

Notice the order. Listen first. Speak later. Anger, last, and slowly.

Most of us do the opposite. Anger comes first. Then we speak. Listening, if it happens at all, comes after the damage is done.

Anger is common in recovery. Some of it is old anger finally surfacing without alcohol to numb it. Some of it is the stress of change. Some of it is a habit you built over years of drinking. And some of it, if you’re honest, works. People back off. You get your way.

But James says it doesn’t produce what God wants. Even when you’re right, explosive anger usually makes things worse. It damages relationships. It feeds resentments. And for people in recovery, it’s one of the fastest roads back to a drink.

Step Six asks you to become ready to let God remove a short temper. That’s not the same as never feeling angry. Anger is a normal human emotion. Jesus felt it. The problem is anger that runs you, explodes on people, and leaves wreckage.

Slowing down is something you can practice. When anger rises, pause. Breathe. Pray a short prayer: Lord, slow me down. Ask a question before you respond. Take a walk if you need to. Say, I need a minute.

Then, later, look at what was underneath the anger. Often it’s fear, or hurt, or wounded pride. Those can go on your list too.

If your anger has ever turned into threats or violence, get help from a pastor or counselor right away, and keep the people around you safe. That’s part of being ready too.

One thing today

Next time you feel anger rising today, stop and take three slow breaths before you say anything. Pray: Lord, slow me down. Notice what happens.

A prayer

God, my anger comes so fast. Make me quick to listen and slow to speak. I’m ready for You to take this temper. Show me what’s underneath it. Amen.

On becoming ready: Step Six.

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