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. (NLT)
This is a radical way to live, as far as current cultural standards are concerned. To submit to this teaching leads to true freedom, in the same way that submitting to the road and traffic laws makes us free to travel from one place to another.
Imagine, never more to be controlled by the bitterness in our own souls, never again filled with rage and anger, never again to speak to others with harsh words. Imagine, never again to slander others that we might look better. Oh, the freedom that comes when we are kind to one another, even to those who are not kind in return. The next verse:
Ephesians 5:1 Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear children.
