Ephesians 4:29 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.
If I were grading myself on the basis of these verses, I would not score very well. I fail, daily, in Every. Single. Category. But I sincerely think that God doesn’t expect perfection. He KNOWS me, knows my faults and shortcomings, knows my struggles. He doesn’t expect perfection, He expects growth.
Ephesians 4:30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.
Commentary says God not only wants us to grow old in Him. He also wants us to grow more mature in Him, getting just a little bit better, stronger, more mature in Christ every day. With effort and attention, I think I can do that.
Ephesians 4:31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice.
Dear Lord, Being perfect as You are perfect seems absolutely out of my abilities. Thank You for the understanding that You don’t expect perfection, You expect growth, maturity. Help me grow and mature in You a little more each day. Amen.
Ephesians 4:32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
Have a blessed day.