“Don’t let any toxic, “gangrene-like” words pass between your lips. Only say things that will benefit, bless, and build others up—words that reflect a heart of grace and love for Jesus. And don’t grieve God the Holy Spirit—that is, don’t replace his life-giving fruit with your rotting garbage. He sealed you for the Day Jesus returns, so don’t act like a stranger to Abba’s commitment to make you like Jesus.
Treat bitterness, rage, anger, brawling, slander, and malice like 6 deadly snakes, black mold spores, or carbon monoxide fumes. Each of them is bent on putting their poison in your bloodstream so you’ll put misery in the lives of others. Instead, be kind and compassionate to one another—treating others the way Abba treats you every single day, hour, and minute. Be intentional and generous with his mercy, gentleness, forgiveness, and encouragement.” My expanded paraphrase of Ephesians 4:25-32
Heavenly Father, we cry “Uncle!” that we might cry “Abba!” Your Word shocks our sensibilities. Your Spirit convicts us to the core. The Gospel dismantles every excuse we would offer for how unlike Jesus we can think, speak, and act.
Indeed, Abba, thank you for new mercies today—like right now on this July Tuesday. Thank you for all the grace we need to humble ourselves, remember the Gospel, walk in the Spirit today. Whoever is in front of us, we want to love them “as unto you.”
Because Jesus lives in us, and our lives are hidden in his, we don’t have to be pickily, overly sensitive, and defensive today. Why call down fire when we can call down grace? Why curse when we can bless? Abba, your kindness will lead us to quick repentances today. Thank you. Your compelling love will compel us not to take things too personally but take all things to Jesus. Thank you, and So Very Amen.