Jesus traced murder back to its root: anger and contempt in the heart. Hatred feels like strength, but it chains you to the person you hate.
What the Bible says
“Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer: and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him.”1 John 3:15 · KJV
“Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath: Neither give place to the devil.”Ephesians 4:26–27 · KJV
“Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath: For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God.”James 1:19–20 · KJV
3 steps
- Before you speak, slow down — “swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath” (James 1:19).
- Deal with anger the same day; do not let the sun go down on it (Ephesians 4:26).
- Pray by name for the person you are angry with.
Follow the daily Short
Questions
Is all anger sin?
Ephesians 4:26 says “Be ye angry, and sin not.” Anger becomes sin when it turns to hatred, contempt, or revenge, or when it is nursed overnight.
Why did Jesus compare anger to murder?
Because both come from the same heart. 1 John 3:15 says “Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer.”
How can I stop hating someone who hurt me?
Start with the forgiveness Jesus gave you, then hand the person to God. See the unforgiveness page for more.