Proverbs 29:11 (NKJV) A fool vents all his feelings, but a wise man holds them back.

Not everyone, but many have issues with anger. Anger is one of those prevailing emotions that if left unchecked, can become a very unfruitful work of our flesh. So what options are there when we sense anger creeping up on us?

First, we can BOTTLE IT UP. This isn't wise. If the feelings which lead up to anger aren't dealt with they can often send a person into a deep depression, or worse yet, a deep rage.

Secondly, we can LET IT OUT! We need to be really careful here. It is possible to be angry and not sin - but only in Christ. If we “let it out” and “let someone have it,” most likely we'll be in the flesh and outbursts of wrath can often cause significant damage to the person on the receiving end (Galatians 5:16-26).

Thirdly, we can try to SUPRESS IT. Holding anger in only opens the door for a root of bitterness to grow and begin to control our thoughts and actions even more than the anger already has.

Truly, our best option is to CONFESS our feelings to the Lord. The feelings that lead to anger are the cares and concerns that we can and should cast upon the Lord (1 Peter 5:7). If we're sinning in the realm of anger, then confessing this will bring healing, wholeness and restoration (1 John 1:9).

One more thing. If there is a person who continually causes you to lean toward anger, then pray for them. God uses prayer in wonderful ways.