Simplify
“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. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 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.” Ephesians 4:29-32
INSIGHT
For some reason, these verses always bring me back to high school sports. I’m not sure if it was something to do with FCA (Fellowship of Christian Athletes) or if I had a coach who taught something similar, but I remember hearing these words and knowing they were meant to be followed.
At the time I first learned these verses, it was easy to watch my tongue. I certainly didn’t have a lot of built-up bitterness or rage. I also had never really experienced pain. Sure, my high school crush didn’t work out and I didn’t always like the rules, but forgiving others was a breeze most of the time. These verses were easy and straightforward to me back then.
Then came the added pressures of life-bills, work, marriage, kids, neighbors, crazy schedules. Somehow, I found myself complaining about life’s challenges and bitter about things not going how I planned. The ease of building one another up was weighed down by the reality of less sleep and more stress. I excused my frustration because I felt justified that other people were the problem, not me. Life felt stagnate at times and defeating at other times.
A few years ago, I chose the word “simplify” as My One Word for the year. It started out as a hope to simplify all the craziness life held. But it transformed into simplifying my faith.
My goal wasn’t to diminish the grandness and awe of God. I wanted to focus and more clearly see who God had called me to be. These verses were something that came back to me that year. Suddenly, I had found myself carrying lots of anger. Forgiveness was more complicated than I hadremembered. I was quicker to cut people down than build them up.
What had happened? I think life happened. The truth is, I wasn’t paying enough attention to the condition of my heart. I figured if I knew what was right, then I would easily just do that. But the reality is that what is in our hearts flows into every area of our lives.
We cannot expect change but continue to do all the same things. For me, I knew how God had called me to live, but I didn’t want to put in the work to get there. While I was busy with the challenges of everyday life, the condition of my heart changed. The things that flowed from me -unwholesome talk, bitterness, lack of compassion - were evidence of what was going on inside. The hope of change that comes with a New Year will never flourish if we continue on the same path we’ve always traveled. No matter what One Word we choose or change we hope to see, the condition of our heart will be a clear indicator of our willingness to intentionally engage in a life with God.
REFLECTION
Where do you find yourself resistant to pay attention to the condition of your heart?
What fuels your resistance to address this issue?
PRAYER
God, Thank you for Your kind reminders to seek You above all else. Thank You for always being present even when I fall or take my eyes off You. Thank You for Your Word that points me back to You and helps me see Your design for Your kingdom. Help me to continue pursuing the callings You have laid on my heart and seeking what it looks like to live like Jesus. Amen.
Katie Robinson, Treasure Island’s Curriculum Coordinator, wrote today’s devotional.
