memorize it: "Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom" (Colossians 3:16, NIV).
Helping Strategy
1. A personal relationship with Jesus Christ is basic to solving any spiritual problem. Ask the inquirer if he or she has entered into this relationship. Share "Steps to Peace with God," page 11.
2. Ask questions of your Christian inquirer to determine the extent of his or her problem with unresolved or excessive anger. Share from the "Background," emphasizing proper Christian attitudes, daily confession, and the "put off—put on" principle. Suggest writing down the points and Scripture references in order to better remember them.
3. Pray with the inquirer, that he or she may have a "conscience void of offense before God and man"(Acts 24:16), and the faith to trust God for continued victory.
Scripture
"A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger" (Proverbs 15:1, NIV).
"A fool gives full vent to his anger, but a wise man keeps himself under control" (Proverbs 29:11, NIV).
"You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness" (Ephesians 4:22–24, NIV).
"Put off all these: anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy language" (Colossians 3:8).
"My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, for man's anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires" (James 1:19–20, NIV). See also Bitterness and Resentment