Ephesians 4:25-27
Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body. “In your anger do not sin,” Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold. Ephesians 4:25-27 (NIV)
Ever heard the advice to newly married couples about never going to bed angry? And the joke that follows where one of them says, “I’ve not been to bed in three days?”
I’m sure that advice stems from this very verse. But this verse also talks about speaking truthfully to our neighbors. And it’s not just referring to the people who live next door or across the street - all people are our neighbors.
Like our physical body made up of different parts with each part doing its job and working together, our ‘people’ body is also made up of different parts each doing their job and working together.
What do you do when your physical body gets sick? You confront the issue – going to the doctor, getting more sleep, drinking more fluids, or whatever ‘fixes’ the problem. What do we do when one or the members of our ‘people’ body is sick? Or acting unwell? You confront them. The larger question is how? And even bigger, how to confront them without anger?
Confrontation is an uncomfortable word for most people. It implies discord, unhappiness, hurt feelings, and anger. Next time you find yourself needing to confront a wrong, especially when you are angry, take a deep breath; count to ten (or twenty) and say a prayer - ask God for patience and love. Then when you’re calmer, remember to use “I” statements: “I’m upset you…” instead of “You never…”. Identify possible solutions – don’t focus on what made you angry, but on the remedies to correct what made you angry in the first place. Don’t make it about you or even them – make it about the issue that prompted you to speak out. It’s not always easy but it’s always worth the effort.
We are human and anger is part of that but this verse gives us clear direction on what to do (put off falsehood and speak truthfully) and what not to do (don’t let the sun go down while you’re still angry).
Questions for Reflection:
-
How do I take care of my physical body so I don’t get sick?
-
How can I take care of my “people” body so it doesn’t get sick?
-
Who do I need to speak truthfully to (with love)?
-
What do I need to be confronted about (with love)?
Prayer
Lord, Walk with me every day but especially when I’m angry or see an issue that needs confronting. Watch my mind and heart that I speak truthfully but with love to my neighbors. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.
Login To Leave Comment