“Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice.” – Ephesians 4:31
Hopefully this isn’t an issue for you. However, many Christians sin in these areas whether they realize it or not. Perhaps because of past suffering. Perhaps because of behaviors modeled by parents or mentors. Perhaps because of a naturally fiery temper. The reason why isn’t as important as recognizing when you have problems in this area. Why? Because sin is sin and these things are sins!
Honestly evaluate yourself and your actions. Do you have a short temper? Are you easily angered? Is your anger very powerful and hurtful once it’s unleashed? When you’re stressed about someone, do you tend to think and say things about them that aren’t true or are meant to turn people against them? Has your past suffering hardened into bitterness that makes you and others around you miserable? None of these things glorify God. None of these things look like Jesus. All of them are sins.
If your answer to ANY of these questions is YES, then Jesus is inviting, commanding, and empowering you to change! First, recognize that all of those behaviors mentioned in this verse are sins. Sins that cause more sin. Admit that. Confess that. Reject that pattern of behavior. Seek God’s help to change. Get help from other believers to change.
If you’re struggling with bitterness, you may need counseling to help you recognize that your bitterness is only hurting you and those you love. Get help releasing your bitterness and pain to God and asking Him to heal those scars. If you have talked about others in any way that makes them look bad, stop. Completely. And apologize every time to break that commitment to speak only true and positive words. If you’re battling a volcanic temper, confess that sin every time it erupts. Then draw nearer to God and walk in the Spirit because the Fruit of the Spirit will change you! #FollowJesus