“Put away all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all forms of malice. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.” Eph. 4:31-32
Lord Jesus, sometimes I read this passage and I’m tempted to think: This is impossible, except for people like Corrie ten Boom and Tim Keller. Or it’s an exaggeration just to make a point. You don’t really expect us to be this loving in this life. You’re just giving us a glimpse of heaven.
But that’s just my weakness, defensiveness, and unbelief speaking. This way of life isn’t tied to anything in us, but to everything in you, Jesus. You’re not calling us to love others as they deserve, but as you love us. No one is more patient, tenderhearted, and kind towards us than you. You’ve already forgiven 100% of our sins—past, present, and future sins. Hallelujah, thank you, but why do we take the riches of grace for granted?
Jesus, what’s really going on with us when we let angry thoughts linger in our minds, bitter roots grow in our hearts, and harmful words come through our lips? None of us are proud of this, and we don’t begin each day planning ways to be easily offended, defensive, suspicious, and snarky. Heal us, free us.
Certainly, “hurt people” hurt other people. But “hurt people” alive to your love have other options, Jesus. Until heaven, people will disappoint us, and we will disappoint them. Because this is true, your relationship with us, and our relationship with you, must take a higher priority in our lives. As winter 2024 will segue into spring 2024, start our heart thaw now, Jesus. Renew our love for you. Restore the joy of our salvation. “Re-Kind” our thoughts, attitudes, and words, Jesus. So Very Amen.