And "don't sin by letting anger control you."  Don't let the sun go downwhile you are still angry, for anger gives a foothold to the devil.  Instead, be kind to each other, tendehearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you. (NLT)

I haven't spoken to my parents in over a month.  I've written to them, but haven't mailed out the letter.  Yes, I was finally able to get my "angry" letter down on paper, but I wasn't able to finish it.  My heart isn't angered anymore.  My heart is sad.  I miss my parents.  It makes me sad that they are missing out on our lives. 

My heart is healing.
 
Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters:  You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry.  Human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires. 

So get rid of all the filth and evil in your lives, and humbly accept the word God has planted in your hearts, for it has the power to save your souls. (NLT)

I struggle with this verse on a daily basis.  James didn't say "some of you," he said, "ALL" of us need to do these things. 

I'm quick to listen, but am I listening to what needs to be heard (truth) or am I listening to things that don't reflect God's desires?

I'm not slow to speak.  I, more often than not, say things that I wish I could take back, especially when I'm on the defense. 

I'm not slow to anger.  This unfortunately rears its head much more than I care for it to do.  I know I don't  give things over as much as I should to God.  I try and I try and I fail constantly to fix things on my own.  I let my words get the best of me.  My words, my actions, and my thoughts, when I'm angry do not glorify God.

Lord, help me to control my tongue from angry, hurtful words.