So stop telling lies. Let us tell our neighbors the truth, for we are all parts of the same body. And “don’t sin by letting anger control you.” Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry, for anger gives a foothold to the devil.
If you are a thief – quit stealing. Instead – use your hands for good hard work, and then give generously to others in need. Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them.
And do not bring sorrow to God’s Holy Spirit by the way you live. Remember – he has identified you as his own – guaranteeing that you will be saved on the day of redemption.
Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead – be kind to each other – tenderhearted – forgiving one another – just as God through Christ has forgiven you. (Ephesians 4:25-32 NLT)
That’s good advice right there – even if you’re a non-believer and non-follower of our Lord God Almighty. What a difference this world would be if we all followed the great wisdom above.
For the believers and followers of Jesus Christ (post-salvation) our speech must reflect what God has placed in our heart. It must reflect the Holy Spirit. It must reflect the fruits of the Holy Spirit. You know – love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. (Galatians 5:22-23). If you’re spouting off at the mouth – like an erupting volcano – then are you reflecting any of those fruits at all ?
See when we carry anger in our heart. When we slander others with our words – we are sinning against God The Holy Spirit.
It is the Holy Spirit that gives us the power that we need to live the way God wants us to live – and to say the things God wants us to say. If we listen to the Holy Spirit, and if we allow the Holy Spirit to lead us – then we will want to obey God. We will seek God’s Glory – above our own.
CountUp 