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, NIV

The last time we looked at the specific language, Paul told us to get rid of it when our conversations and relationships go sideways. When these emotions rise up, it is an indication that we must return to the Spirit to find out where He would lead us.

However, like the proverb says, "nature abhors a vacuum." If we only remove these harmful emotional traits and do not replace them, they will come rushing back to take over our hearts. That is why Paul gives us a simple set of replacements. They are simple, but not necessarily easy. Here they are:

Be kind: The words that make this phrase mean, "bring into existence a pleasantness and grace." It is as if one opens a way or a path for a different relationship or emotion. The root word means "to lend." You only lend something to someone you give trust and are generous with.

Be compassionate: This is an easy one to understand. It means to feel strongly about another person. Just as we were strong in our anger before, we replace that with strong love and empathy for the other.

Lastly, forgive each other: Forgiveness is the lubrication of every great relationship. When we replace anger with forgiveness, we not only heal but restore. Paul adds this note: "Forgive as in Christ God forgave you.” Just in case you are tempted to not forgive, he brings us to the cross. If the Lord God was so gracious to forgive me, how could I withhold grace to another?

So, don't just get rid of the bad stuff, replace it with the good. When you fill your life with kindness, compassion, and forgiveness, you will be well on your way to becoming more like Jesus. That is the way He relates to us.

Love, Pastor Stuart