“But now you must also rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips.” Colossians 3:8 (NIV)

As followers of Jesus, we are called to live differently. It doesn’t just mean believing the right things; it means allowing Him to change the way we live. In this verse, the apostle Paul encourages believers to let go of attitudes and behaviors that no longer belong in a life dedicated to Christ. Anger, rage, malice, slander, and foul language are often reactions to hurt, stress, or pride. They may feel natural in the moment, but they do real damage to others and ourselves. That means learning to respond with patience, choosing words that build up rather than tear down, and allowing the Holy Spirit to guide how we speak and act.

Letting go of these behaviors isn’t always easy, especially when we’re surrounded by a world that sees these behaviors as the norm (more notably within teens). But with God’s help, we can grow in self-control and reflect Christ in our daily lives, even in tough moments. This week, pay close attention to your words and reactions. Are they filled with grace, or are they rooted in frustration or bitterness? Ask God to help you recognize anything you need to “rid yourself of,” and trust Him to help you change from the inside out.