A Daily Devotion for Monday, May 4

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. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 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.

1Thessalonians 5:11

Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.

As simple as the verses above make it seem, it is not always easy to follow the message. We may disagree with people in our church family, who say or do things we feel are insensitive or mean-spirited, and we feel inclined to complain or confront them. But most of the time, these are truly matters between God and our brother or sister in Christ, and we are not likely to make a positive contribution to that process. Whenever possible, we are encouraged to “get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger”. We are at our best when we all make an effort to work together toward a common goal.

Holy Lord, help me to remember to hold my tongue, and refrain from even “venting” to anyone other than you, when it involves another Christian and their behavior. I know that I am far from perfect, and would never want to hear all of the complaints made against me in the past. I pray that all Christians everywhere grow closer to you, and continue to transform through your Word. Amen

Becky, transforming