|
So if you're serious about living this new life with Christ,
act like it.
- Colossians 3:1
... We do not have the excuse of ignorance, everything -
and I do mean everything - connected with that old life has
to go. It's rotten through and through. Get rid of it! And
then take on an entirely new way of life - a God fashioned
life, a life renewed from the inside and working itself into
your conduct as God accurately reproduces his character in
you. What this adds up to, then, is this: no more lies, no
more pretense. Tell you neighbor the truth. In Christ's body
we're all connected to each other, after all. When you lie
to others, you end up lying to yourself. Go ahead and be
angry. You do well to be angry - but don't use your anger
as fuel for revenge. And don't stay angry. Don't go to bed
angry. Don't give the Devil that kind of foothold in your
life. Did you used to make ends meet by stealing? Well, no
more! Get an honest job so that you can help others who can't
work. Watch the way you talk. Let nothing foul or dirty come
out of your mouth. Say only what helps, each word a gift.
Don't grieve God. Don't break his heart. His Holy Spirit,
moving and breathing in you, is the most intimate part of
your life, making you fit for himself. Don't take such a
gift for granted! Make a clean break with all cutting, backbiting,
and profane talk. Be gentle with one another, sensitive.
Forgive one another quickly and thoroughly as God in Christ
forgave you.
- Ephesians 4:17-31-The Message
Want
More?
|
