"Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you."
Have you ever been angry? I mean mad beyond control? I do not like confrontation. Mostly due to the fact that I am not sure how to fully deal with overly aggressive people without becoming overly aggressive myself. This is why I practice verse 31. Sometimes I just have to walk away (so if I walk away from you during a conversation, and I am not saying anything - you may not want to follow)....
The list in verse 31 tells us of emotions that will take our focus off of God, and is also found in Colossians 3. I want to share what I wrote in my Bible study from Colossians: Steering Your Life
Look at this list of areas Christians can do without in order to refocus on God:
- anger - hate only creates more hate. Anger feeds lusts and desires.
- rage - once enacted, it is hard to turn off or control. Don't go there! Peace never emerges from the aftermath of rage. Let peace rule your heart!
- malice - is a deliberate attempt to harm others (even when others are being good to you). Malice is a relationship destroyer and there is an evil influence behind it - Beware of the wiles of Satan!
- slander - beyond gossip! This is a purpose filled attempt to ruin someone and is usually a tool of revenge. Malice emerges from this one!
- filthy language - crude talk, abrasive language and expletives. Such language makes a person seem unintelligent. Besides, filthy language demeans the beauty of communication
- don't lie to each other - Jesus came with the truth - a truth to set people free. Should we give any less? Why bind up a relationship by destroying trust? Don't lie!
The AlternativeI hope you enjoy today. God Bless.
The alternative is God's design for our lives because it is a relationship builder. These are all choices we have to make:
We all have faults and should understand the faults in others. Remember salvation is a constant work and takes patience and forgiveness on our part. If the Fruit of the Spirit is present in someone, then bearing with their faults is the least we can do for them. Besides, isn't that what Jesus does for us (daily)?
- compassion - genuine sympathy or showing mercy for others and their needs (acting on behalf of them - not your ego)
- kindness - being benevolent or being generous with others
- humility - understanding where you stand with God in a manner that doesn't puff you up nor is it self-deprecating
- gentleness - meekness is not a weakness! It is being considerate of others and submissive to God's Word. There is a willingness to give up one's rights for the sake of another
- patience - we all need it but many suffer through it (if you suffer, then it's not patience). Putting up with an irritating person is very difficult but the Holy Spirit gives us the ability to endure!
And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. Colossians 3:17 (NIV)
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