Replacing Resentment

Over the last several posts we have looked at the need to "put away" resentment toward those who have hurt you as seen in Ephesians 4:31. But in in verse 32 we learn that we also need to replace that resentment with a few things such as:

Kindness - Doing things that are useful and helpful to those who have hurt you.

Tender-Loving Kindness - A little boy was once asked what the difference was between kindness and tender-loving kindness. He said that if he was hungry and you gave him a piece of bread, that would be kindness. But if you spread some jam on that bread, that would be tender-loving kindness.

Forgiveness - We have already defined forgiveness in earlier posts. But maybe you are thinking, "that person doesn't deserve my forgiveness!" You might be right. But the root word for forgiveness in the original language is where we get the word "grace" (getting something we don't deserve). Let me ask you something. Did you deserve the forgiveness of God? Absolutely not! So you too are obligated to forgive those who have hurt you - even if they don't deserve it!

Be sure to read my other blog at www.folkslisten.blogspt.com. You can leave a comment at either blog or email me directly at skdistler@gmail.com.