Scripture: Ephesians 4:31
Put aside all bitterness, losing your temper, anger, shouting, and slander, along with every other evil.
Thought for the Day: What do you have close at hand? What emotional response is most accessible to you? In our highly charged society, I think a lot of people have put humility, listening, calming questioning, kindness and mercy in a locked closet back at home so as to make room for bitterness, anger, yelling, slander and all kinds of unkind reactions. When someone says something to you that you find a bit outrageous, what is your first reaction? What would it be to say, “Interesting? I think I need to hear more so that I understand exactly what you are saying.” -or- “I don’t know if that is exactly how I would look at it, but tell me why you believe that?” The Greek word we translate as “put aside” is airo, which means to elevate, raise up or put out of reach. Notice the English word “air” that is found within the Greek word. I think it could be translated as put as much air or space between you and these emotions. This takes practice, but a simple daily exercise using a prayerful mantra can be helpful – Place in my mind a spirit of humility and in my heart only love. What might it mean for you to start each day by repeating those words seven times?
Prayer: I ask you, Generous God, to place in my mind a spirit of humility and in my heart only love. Amen.
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