Eph 4:25-32

Paul gives us a list of things that the new life in Jesus should include. It’s not an exhaustive list but touches many important areas.

Ephesians 4:26
“In your anger do not sin”: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry...

It’s important to know that anger in itself isn’t wrong. Paul says to be angry, but do not sin. There is such a thing as righteous anger. Anger at injustice. Anger at those who hurt and take advantage of others. Mature people understand that you can love and be angry at the same time. It’s not an either/or. Maturity says, “I love you but I’m angry with you”.

And then he adds to this wisdom with, “Don’t let the sun go down on your anger”. This works in every relationship from business to marriage. The spirit of it is, don’t let it fester or escalate.

Jesus said,

Settle matters quickly with your adversary who is taking you to court. Do it while you are still together on the way, or your adversary may hand you over to the judge, and the judge may hand you over to the officer, and you may be thrown into prison. (Matt 5:25)

Paul continues the list, but the heart of it is,

Ephesians 4:27;30
...do not give the devil a foothold… and do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God.

At the end of the day, let us live lives that build others up. Lives that have an attractive spirituality.

Eph 4:29; 31-32
Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.

Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.