by Pastor Mark Jordan
“Be kind, compassionate, and forgiving to each other, in the same way God forgave you in Christ.” (Ephesians 4:32, CEB)
Isn’t this a great verse? It comes in the context of the Apostle Paul teaching the believers in the church at Ephesus about their conduct and behavior. In verse 29, he wrote to only say things that build up the body of Christ, or the church. Isn’t that something we need in this day and age?
How often have you been guilty of saying things that tear down instead of build up others? Going off in anger…manipulation…gossip…things that aim to make yourself look better at the expense of someone else; all of these are things that God hates (Proverbs 6:16-19), because they rob others of their dignity, reputation, and joy. So we need help. Check out the Great Physician’s prescription for giving life in the community of faith: kindness, compassion, and forgiveness. When these are the values we live into, well, everyone is healthier.
I want to close today with a reminder of the Golden Rule: do to others as you would have them do to you (Matthew 7:12). Some have also interpreted this as don’t do anything to anybody you wouldn’t want them to do to you. However you need to read this, read it. And heed it. Choose to live a life of kindness, compassion, and forgiveness.
Prayer: Dear Lord, thank you for the kindness, compassion, and forgiveness you show me, even when I am at my worst. Forgive me the times I don’t extend this same courtesy with others. Help me, by the power of your Holy Spirit, to live in a way that builds up others and builds up your church. I ask this in Jesus’ name. Amen.
