Relationship Killers
Written by Ryan Simmons
Sunday, 03 September 2006 13:05
Sermon Passage: Ephesians 4:25-5:2
25Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor, for we are all members of one body. 26"In your anger do not sin: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, 27and do not give the devil a foothold. 28He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with his own hands, that he may have something to share with those in need. 29Do 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. 30And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 31Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. 32Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
Ephesians 5
1Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children 2and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.Relationship Killers
- Dishonesty (4:25)
- Gossip (4:29)
- Grudges / unforgiveness (4:31-32)
Bitterness Indicators
- The mention of their name triggers negative emotions.
- Gossip about them comes easily and without conviction.
- You have imaginary confrontations with them in your mind.
Preventors
- Integrity (4:25)
- Discipline (emotional control to hold our tongue and keep our emotions in check)
- "Other" focused: being focused on their needs and building them up
Conclusion
- Be imitators of God
- Live a life of love.