Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior.
(Ephesians 4:31 NLT)
Spiritual renewal involves commitment to prayer and meditation on God’s Word. When we examine our lives, we see how demanding God’s standards for righteous living are. But we need not despair because we have God’s grace to help us conform to His will.
Matthew 6:14 tells us, “For if you forgive others for their transgressions, your heavenly Father will also forgive you." (NASB) But how do we forgive others who have wronged us?
If we obey God’s instructions, allowing Him to teach us humility, He will also help us to forgive others who have hurt us. God is in the business of healing relationships. When we obey God’s Word, He helps us to reconcile bad relationships, and this serves as a solid foundation for further spiritual growth.
Forgive, forget. Bear with the faults of others as you would have them bear with yours. Be patient and understanding.
Life is too short to be vengeful or malicious.
- Phillips Brooks