Introduction: Are you finding yourself getting mad lately? Losing your temper… or really finding it? Which one? With Hot weather comes hot-headedness! Right? Do you get angry? What is causing your anger? Is it something that you cannot control? Do people make you angry? Aren’t you glad we don’t have people-zappers like bug-zappers?

What do you do when you lose your COOL? How can we Stay COOL in a HOT-HEADED culture?

1. Ask, what is CAUSING your ANGER?

“9Be not hasty in thy spirit to be angry: for anger resteth in the bosom of fools.” (Eccl 7:9)

Solomon probably had to deal with anger constantly, with his many wives, concubines, servants, and possessions. 

A bitter and resentful spirit causes anger. The writer of the book of Hebrews mentions, “roots of bitterness springing up and defiling many,” (Heb 12:15).

Unresolved conflicts can cause harshness. Ungratefulness causes anger. Lack of trust in the Lord can create anger.

2. Ask how can we DEAL with ANGER before it DEALS with us?

“4Make no friendship with an angry man; and with a furious man thou shalt not go.” (Prov 22:24)

If we hang out with angry people, Solomon warns us that it will influence us. Instead of us influencing them, too often it is the opposite. They rub off on us. Be sure to surround yourself with those who can deal with anger. But at the same time, if you are ready, help disciple – only a teachable, cooperative, student.

Conclusion: Obviously, there are other factors besides the ones mentioned in this devotion that cause anger. Anger toward sin is justifiable…. Jesus turned over the money changer tables and drove them out with a whip because He said they were making His FATHER’S house a den of thieves. However, remember, He was God with pure motives. 

While some INTERNALIZE their anger and take it out on themselves, others EXTERNALIZE their anger and take it out on others. The sooner we deal with the problem of HOT-HEADEDNESS, the better and further we walk with our Lord.

COOL OFF!