Stop!

Ephesians 4:25-5:2 v 25” Stop telling lies. Let us tell our neighbors the truth, for we are all parts of the same body.

Stop telling lies. Don’t sin by letting your anger control you. Quit stealing. Don’t use foul or abusive language. Do not bring sorrow to God’s Holy Spirit by the way you live. Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander as well as all types of evil behavior. Live a life filled with love!

Some of my hostas are flowering now, others are long over and I have cut off the long stems that remained. Pansies so vibrant in the spring have been removed from my planters, gladioli are just beginning to show their wonderful colors. When I first read this passage this is how I felt. At times I bloom with love, live right with God at the center of my days but then like the different flowers in my garden I fade away and am angry with my husband, say bad things about my neighbors, and swear at the driver who weaves in and out on a major highway going well over the speed limit, even more so than me!

So today I will regroup and stop. Use my hands for good works. Let everything I say be good and helpful. Be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving, just as God has forgiven me. Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ, a pleasing aroma to God. Stop the bad and bloom with love.

Prayer: Heavenly Father I am sorry for the angry words I have spoken this week, for the lack of love shown particularly to those I am close to. Give us all a loving heart today as we try our best to be like jesus in all we doo. Amen.