READING: Ephesians 4:25-32

We continue today on Paul's teaching on putting off the old man and putting on the new man. This time around, more vices that are associated with the old man are mentioned and we are required to put them off. Interestingly, wherever he lists a vice to "put off", he gives a virtue to "put on". Lying is replaced by truth (4:25) and anger with reconciliation (4: 26-27); a person who once robbed - goes to work (4:28); harmful words give way to helpful ones (4: 29); bitterness, wrath, anger, and insults give way to tender-heartedness, forgiveness (4: 31-32).

Verse 30 stands out in the list. "And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption". The Holy Spirit who sees our heart knows whether all the vices of the old man have been put off or not. He is grieved when we carry these vices into our new life. However, He rejoices when we substitute the vices of the old man with the virtues of the new man. God forgave us in Christ and this grace should motivate us to do the same for others.

PRAYER: Grant Lord that I may substitute every vice with the virtues of the new man. Amen!