Now THIS is family!

Therefore, putting away lying, “Let each one of you speak truth with his neighbor,” for we are members of one another. “Be angry, and do not sin”: do not let the sun go down on your wrath, nor give place to the devil. Let him who stole steal no longer, but rather let him labor, working with his hands what is good, that he may have something to give him who has need. Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice.  And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.   (Ephesians 4:25-32)

Wow! Now THIS is family! This is how family treats one another; truth . . .no lingering anger for days . . . hard work and sacrifice . . .kind words and encouragement! This is what Paul described for the Church however, much less our families! 

Could you imagine if we could simply practice this at home how much more pleasant life would be? 

Let's examine our personal lives for a few minutes and identify our shortcomings. Are we holding on to our anger, allowing it to brew overnight? Let it go. Suck it up and take the blame. Apologize . . . FORGIVE! 

Admit faults. Tell the truth. Be encouraging. See ourselves in others and try to better understand everyone. Be less selfish. Appreciate everyone and their contributions. 

Be sure to please God rather than grieve His His Holy Spirit! Because after all, how we treat others is how we are treating God, especially when it comes to fellow believers!