“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.”
Paul is continuing his instructions about living differently from the world around us. Recall that unity is the goal — as God demonstrates unity within himself and in his salvation of the world, we too must act as a united body. Paul gives us concrete examples in today’s verses: tell the truth, deal with conflict appropriately, work hard instead of stealing, and watch your mouth.
When we remember that we are God’s adopted children who are in line for a great spiritual inheritance, we start acting differently. Instead of following dysfunctional ways that may have been present in our earthly families, we practice kindness and tenderness to one another. In God’s family, holding a grudge simply isn’t possible because your heart remains soft.
Here’s your freedom for today: getting rid of anger sets you free. All of the things Paul tells us to get rid of are things that harm us. Bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander — these are all descriptions of a person I would never want to be. When our hearts are hard, we act like the world and it is impossible to live by the Spirit in that condition. These ways are directly opposed to the example of Christ. Check your heart today and take your emotional pulse. Are you holding onto anger and bitterness? Is there someone you have yet to forgive? Ask God to soften your heart and let go, you’ll be more free than you’ve ever been.