Today, we will return to Ephesians again.
Ephesians 4
Since you have heard about Jesus and have learned the truth that comes from him, throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception. Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy. So stop telling lies. Let us tell our neighbors the truth, for we are all parts of the same body. And “don’t sin by letting anger control you.” Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry, for anger gives a foothold to the devil. If you are a thief, quit stealing. Instead, use your hands for good hard work, and then give generously to others in need. Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them. And do not bring sorrow to God’s Holy Spirit by the way you live. Remember, he has identified you as his own, guaranteeing that you will be saved on the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.
Paul offered a list of contrasts to balance, usher in new life, and get rid of our old life. The image is much like taking off an old, dirty set of clothes and putting on a brand-new outfit. Listen to his words again in this way …
Take off lying and put on truth
Take off stealing and put on sharing
Take off discouragement and put on encouragement
Take off bitterness and put on forgiveness
Take off rage and put on kindness
Take off anger and put on compassion
Which of these have never been an issue for you? Which have been a problem in the past? And which may be a struggle today?
Some of these are an easy 'change of clothes', while some may be tougher.
Listen to the opening of this passage to be reminded of how we are to accomplish these more challenging changes.
Throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception. Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy.
Let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes.
Let’s pray together: “Heavenly Father, Thank You for all the things You have helped me to change, to take off. Thank You for the new that You have allowed me to experience. Help me to keep transforming, changing into Your image. As above, so below.”