I often wanted to do a fun segment in young adult gatherings called “Bad Dates”, where people share about a recent dating experience gone wrong. They could identify a ‘put off’. I think it could be educational. I really don’t know what the top 10 dating Put Offs would be since I’ve been married for 36 years. But, I thought it was a provocative title to get you to read this post. The apostle Paul reminds us that there are certain attitudes and actions we must continue to ‘put off’, ‘remove’, ‘rid’ from our lives as believers in Jesus. Why? Because they are contrary to the nature of God and the ‘kingdom’ that He is building with us. So, instead of thieving we are to be sharing. Instead of bitter, we are to be compassionate. You get the idea. Let’s put off the old stuff and let God instill the good. And if you are single, you probably will have better dates.
Therefore, ridding yourselves of falsehood, speak truth each one of you with his neighbor, because we are parts of one another. Be angry, and yet do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, and do not give the devil an opportunity. The one who steals must no longer steal; but rather he must labor, producing with his own hands what is good, so that he will have something to share with the one who has need. Let no unwholesome word come out of your mouth, but if there is any good word for edification according to the need of the moment, say that, so that it will give grace to those who hear. Do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. All bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and slander must be removed from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, compassionate, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you. Ephesians 4:25-31 NASB
What is it in attitude or action that I need to consciously put off and out of my life so that Godly qualities can emerge?
God, as this day begins- I am pausing to invite You, in Your grace to work within my life and through it to become and do what You desire. Thank you for my precious family and friends. As I tackle some administrative tasks, would you amplify my efforts, harmonize them with the team, and cause spiritual fruit to be born out. I am starting late today, but with You, its the best start ever!
