Together in Christ: 'Instead!' — Ephesians 4:31-32

Notice the key word in these two verses: "instead"!

Living in healthy relationships with others requires more than getting rid of bad stuff. ^[1] Yes, we need to "take out the trash" and get rid of the filth in our lives. The garbage in our hearts pollutes and ruins our relationships. ^[2] We must get rid of things like "bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander" along with all types of evil and selfish behaviors. Yet, just getting rid of these relationship-ruining words and behaviors won't lead us to deepened and holy relationships. They amount to taking the trash out of our lives.

When we notice the "instead" in our verses, the Holy Spirit can open our eyes to a fundamental truth. We must replace negative thoughts, speech, and behaviors with words, traits, and actions consistent with the Holy Spirit and the fruit the Spirit produces in us. ^[3] We need to take out the trash in our lives and bring in the proper groceries for our souls so we can grow in grace inspired by the Spirit. And our target, our goal, for these positive words and behaviors is to honor our Father in Heaven, Who has blessed us with His grace, mercy, and forgiveness. ^[4]

Let's get the trash out of our lives and replace it with the good fruit of God's presence as the Spirit transforms us into disciples who resemble our Teacher, Savior, and Lord! ^[5] With the Spirit's help, we must strive to "be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another." ^[6]