“Get rid of all
bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of
malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as
in Christ God forgave you.” Ephesians
4:31-32
Unfortunately, many churches have become a pit of snakes,
where bitterness, slander and gossip exist.
This ought not to be. Christ
didn’t give up His life for such things.
He died to rid us of these lesser characteristics so that we might live
in peace within the body of Christ. We
are to extend kindness and show compassionate to all our brothers and sisters
in the faith, not seek to tear them down because of some feeble disagreement
that may have caused discontent.
God gave us a supreme example when He graciously forgave us
of all our sins through the blood of His Son.
Our lives are to be filled with mercy, kindness, forgiveness and
love. Sure, we will stumble and act
inappropriately towards another from time to time; however, it is then that we
must humbly repent and seek forgiveness from both God and the offended
party. To not do so shows a prideful and
arrogant spirit which has no place in God’s kingdom.
If you find yourself wrestling with ungodly character traits
in your own life, seek God in the matter.
Ask Him to purge such things from you.
Enlist the prayers of trusted mentors and friends. We don’t have to be subject to devil inspired
thoughts, words or actions. It’s not
God’s intention that we do. Lay your
life on the alter and allow the Holy Spirit to have His way. Leave all ungodly behavior in the hands of
our loving Heavenly Father, who will remove them in due time. Until next time, walk with the King and be a
blessing!
