From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham

The Bible tells us how to overcome sins that so easily beset us. Be quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to anger; for it does not lead to the righteousness of God (see James 1:18–20).

This means to listen [read and study] the very Word of God. This means to meditate on God’s truth. When we listen to God, He will impart His power and wisdom and give us strength to overcome sinful behaviors. God wants to help His people be victorious. He wants us to hand our sin over to Him and ask Him to help us let it go.

We must not let anger control us, no matter what others do that causes anger. When we respond to an angry person in anger, we become guilty of the same sin that afflicts them, and nothing will be solved. Bitterness is anger gone sour, an attitude of deep discontent that poisons our souls and destroys our peace. Every destructive emotion bears its own harvest, but anger’s fruit is the most bitter of all.

Peter’s anger was channeled into boldness for Christ. Paul’s anger against Christians was replaced with a burning passion to spread the Gospel. Anger flees when the Spirit’s fruit fills our hearts. When we want our faith to grow, we must let the Bible—God’s Word—saturate our hearts, minds, and souls.

(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)

Hand over your sin to Christ. Pray now.