Ephesians 4:29-32
Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. 30And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 31Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. 32Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
The last two verses are really potent. We’re to get rid of all bitterness, all rage, all anger, meaning there should not even be a trace remaining. And then we’re to replace that with being kind, compassionate, and forgiving.
I’m writing this mainly because I’m reminding myself of this standard. In the world today, it might seem like a pretty good accomplishment to only be somewhat bitter or partially angry. Heck, compared to a lot of people, we figure, we’re probably doing a pretty good job.
But we can’t compare ourselves to where the world is. The standard has been set in God’s Word, and when we measure ourselves using that as a guideline, we realize just how sinful and desperate we are. I know I can think of so many times where I have very much failed to meet that criteria; simply put, I’ve fallen short. After realizing my constant shortcomings, God’s mercy and forgiveness towards me becomes all that more amazing. 