Ephesians 4:31-32

Scripture:

Ephesians 4:31-32 “Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you.” (NASB)

Observation:

“Trust me...let go!” Those words were very hard to hear as a young boy. There was a group of us who loved to climb things. Whatever we could find, we would climb. Well, one day we had climbed up to the top of this very high wall, and when it was time to climb down, I became afraid. I didn't think I could get down. So, I hung on to the wall with all I had. Today's verse speaks of letting go of all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor and slander along with malice. It goes on to say that we should be kind, tender-hearted, and forgiving. One of the boys at the bottom of the wall, yelled up, "Trust me; let go!" In order for me to get down off the wall, I needed to listen and trust his words. How many of us are hanging on to those things that we need to let go of and trust God? The baggage we carry with us can be like holding on to a wall, afraid to let go and let God! I finally found the courage to let go of the wall and slid down to safety. If we let go of our baggage, we can slide right into His arms. We just need to let go!!! What are you holding on to?  

Application:

• Personal Application: Continue spending time with the Lord daily. Sow righteousness and reap the fruit of God's unfailing love. 
• Family Devotional: Read this chapter to your family. Ask them if anything spoke to them as you read. Talk about their answers and show them that one important aspect of this chapter is that we must continue to spend time with the Lord and keep our hearts focused on His plans and purposes. Pray for them.

TOM SEMBER has been involved in ministering to men for over 20 years. He is an ordained minister with the AG in the NY Ministry Network. Tom lives with his wife, Carolyn, and children in New York. You can connect with Tom on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.