Aug 29, 2020 4 min
Today, I put us in remembrance of some words the Apostle Paul wrote to the Body of Christ,
found in Ephesians 4:25-32. These are not only words to live by, but they are especially critical
during these days that are darker than many people have ever experienced. As Christians, we are called to be different so that we can demonstrate the will of God to others (see Romans 12:2).
This difference enables us to be lights that lead people to Jesus. The words of Paul that I’m
reminding us of today position us to be the lights God is calling us to be.
First, Paul admonished Christians, “So stop telling lies. Let us tell our neighbors the truth, for we
are all parts of the same body.” It is so easy for people to lie nowadays. If telling a lie can get the
job done, they will do it. If telling a lie can stir up strife, go for it. If telling lies can get a person
elected, then tell them shamelessly. However, Paul makes it clear that this should not be the case with the Body of Christ. We should not lie to each other. When we stand up to minister, we must speak the truth—not our truth, but His truth (see John 17:17). When we witness to others, we must not be afraid, when prompted by the Holy Spirit, to depict Hell as a real place that can only be avoided through acceptance of Jesus as Lord and Savior. When speaking with each other, we must not lie about our intentions, and determine to keep our word, even if it hurts. In the words of Jesus, “let your yes be yes, and your no [be] no…whatever is more than these is from the evil one” (Matthew 5:37).
Secondly, Paul admonishes us, “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.” With all the things going
on all around us, it is sometimes hard not to be angry. However, we are told to not let it control
us. In essence, we should not express our anger, our give in to it, in such a way that our witness
for Christ is compromised. We must remember that we are called to demonstrate love to the
world, not hatred. As believers, we cannot go to bed with anger in our hearts as a result of our
encounters with other believers, politicians, preachers, spouses, children, or anyone. We must
heed Paul’s admonition that any kind of anger that goes unchecked gives a foothold to the devil.
Webster define foothold as a position usable as a base for further advance. Anger, therefore,
yields the advantage to the devil. It takes him from under our feet, where he belongs, and puts
him in a place of dominion, completely contradicting the will of God for us! That is reason
enough to never allow bitterness to take root in us, for if it takes root, it will eventually spring up
and cause trouble that we do not want (see Hebrews 12:15). So if you struggle with anger this
way, I encourage you to read I Corinthians 13:4-8 each night before you go to bed. Do this
instead of watching news programs that incite anger, especially because news programs are not
always truthful. And do this until anger no longer controls you.
Paul goes on by say, “If you are a thief, quit stealing. Instead, use your hands for good hard
work, and then give generously to others in need.” It is important that we respect the property of
others. We should never tolerate looting and stealing of other people’s property, no matter the
reason. Let us teach—in word and in deed—the next generation the value of hard work,
responsibility, and respect for others. Furthermore, 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. I have never heard or read as much foul language—not necessarily cussing, but
foul in the sense of dishonoring or discrediting those with whom we disagree—as I do on social
media, not only from sinners but also from Christians. I have read Christians questioning each
other’s salvation and calling each other offensive names. Christians demeaning each other: what
a conundrum, for blessing and cursing should not proceed from the same mouth (see James
3:10). Remember, He has identified us as His own, guaranteeing that we will be saved on the day
of redemption. Accordingly, let us be examples to the world.
Finally, the Apostle Paul instructs us, “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.” Remember that you needed
God’s forgiveness for your wrongdoing, intentional or otherwise, and when you received it, you
were overjoyed. Therefore, give that same compassion, love, and forgiveness to others when
they fall and bring joy to their heart, as well as an open door for God to do a work in them.
Remember also to not despise the riches of His goodness, forbearance, and longsuffering, which
lead people to repentance (see Romans 2:4). After all, you are absolutely the product of His goodness; how then can you despise it when it is directed to others?
God bless you, as you continue to hear and heed His Voice!
