Definition and Nature:
Righteous anger, often referred to as "holy indignation," is a form of anger that aligns with God's character and purposes. It is a response to sin, injustice, or evil that reflects God's own displeasure with wrongdoing. Unlike human anger, which can be tainted by sin and selfishness, righteous anger is pure and seeks to uphold God's holiness and justice.

Biblical Examples:

1. Jesus Cleansing the Temple:
One of the most prominent examples of righteous anger in the Bible is Jesus' cleansing of the temple. In John 2:13-17 , Jesus drives out the money changers and merchants, saying, "Take these things away! Stop turning My Father’s house into a marketplace!" His actions were motivated by zeal for God's house and a desire to restore its intended purpose as a place of worship.

2. God's Anger Against Idolatry:
Throughout the Old Testament, God's anger is often directed at idolatry and the unfaithfulness of His people. In Exodus 32:10 , after the Israelites create the golden calf, God expresses His anger: "Now leave Me alone so that My anger may burn against them and consume them." This anger is rooted in God's covenant relationship with Israel and His desire for their exclusive worship.

3. Paul's Rebuke of Peter:
In Galatians 2:11-14 , the Apostle Paul confronts Peter for his hypocrisy in withdrawing from Gentile believers. Paul's anger is not personal but is driven by a commitment to the truth of the Gospel and the unity of the church.

Characteristics of Righteous Anger:

1. Aligned with God's Will:
Righteous anger is always in harmony with God's will and character. It is not self-serving but seeks to address offenses against God and His commandments.

2. Constructive, Not Destructive:
While human anger can lead to sin and destruction, righteous anger aims to correct and restore. It seeks justice and reconciliation rather than revenge or harm.

3. Controlled and Purposeful:
Righteous anger is controlled and purposeful. Ephesians 4:26 advises, "Be angry, yet do not sin." This implies that anger, when righteous, is measured and directed towards a godly end.

Guidelines for Exercising Righteous Anger:

1. Self-Examination:
Before expressing anger, believers are encouraged to examine their motives and ensure their anger aligns with God's righteousness. James 1:19-20 reminds us, "Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger, for man’s anger does not bring about the righteousness that God desires."

2. Prayer and Discernment:
Seeking God's guidance through prayer and Scripture is essential in discerning whether one's anger is righteous. The Holy Spirit can provide wisdom and clarity in such situations.

3. Focus on Restoration:
The ultimate goal of righteous anger should be the restoration of individuals and communities to God's standards. This involves speaking the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15) and seeking to bring about repentance and healing.

Conclusion:
Righteous anger is a complex but vital aspect of the Christian life. It reflects God's own response to sin and injustice and calls believers to act in ways that uphold His holiness and justice. By understanding and exercising righteous anger, Christians can participate in God's redemptive work in the world.