Relationship Breakers and Builders

On my list "Ten Things I Must Never Forget" is the reminder that everything I say or do has an impact on someone else. Each one of us, in our words and our actions, has both the power to do much good and much evil. Accordingly, the apostle Paul lays down a strong challenge: Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry (Colossians 3:5).

All of things listed in this verse are sins of attitude and behavior. And because idolatry by definition is anything that takes priority over God, these sins must be dealt with. By cleansing our hearts of these things, we can also help avoid the sins of speech: But now you must rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips (Colossians 3:8). These are relationship breakers.

As God's men, we have a better choice that's found in Colossians 3:12--Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. These are relationship builders. Because the Father's love has freed us from the penalty of sin and death, we can commit ourselves to the teachings of His Word. In doing so, we take on the attitude of Jesus Christ and break down the barriers that hinder human relationships.