◄ What Does Ephesians 4:30 Mean? ►

We have been bought with a price and received the life of Christ, but too often we allow the old sin nature to surface in our lives, and Paul warns that allowing sin to take control in our hearts rather than the new life in Christ, causes the indwelling Spirit (Who has sealed us unto the day of redemption), to be grieved and distressed.

Paul lists those things that grieve God: lying, anger, stealing, corrupt speak, and bitterness. How important to take every thought captive and abstain from twisted words, rather let us speak the truth in love. He urges us against unrighteous anger, which is kindled in an emotionally aroused, darkened heart. Let us never forget that the soft answer turns away wrath and comes from a heart that is submitted to the Spirit.

In warning against stealing, Paul encourages us towards honest labour and he also reminds us to keep away from corrupt speech, for out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks.

Finally, he warns against bitterness which is a poison that emanates from the inner man, for it not only robs us of our inner joy and peace but quenches the Spirit's word in our lives and removes us from fellowship with the Father.

Let us submit in all things to the Spirit knowing that we are sealed by Him, unto the day of redemption.

Heavenly Father, keep me, I pray, from all those things that grieve Your Spirit and cause destruction to my soul. Rather, may I live unto the Lord in humility of heart and gentleness of spirit. In Jesus' name I pray, AMEN.