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Ephesians 4:25-32
25 Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body. 26 "In your anger do not sin": Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, 27 and do not give the devil a foothold. 28 Those who have been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need.
29 Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. 30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. 32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
This passage could almost be used as a checklist for Christian living.
Do you speak truthfully? When do you find it difficult to do so? Are there any falsehoods that you should clear up?
Anger itself is not a sin, but we can be drawn into sin if we handle our anger poorly. Are you good at dealing with anger?
Did you know that copying a friend's CD is stealing? It's true. If you have it but didn't pay for it, it's stolen.
What about verse 29? If you were giving yourself a letter grade on how well you did with that in the past week, what would it be?
Reread verses 31 and 32. Are you holding on to any anger or bitterness? Are you openly compassionate and forgiving?
Pray about the answers to these questions. Ask God to continue to bless you with strength in the areas where you're doing well, and for more strength for the areas that need improving.
If today's devotion spoke to you in a particular way and you feel led to share your thoughts with others, please do so.
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