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Divine Dispatch
Ephesians 4:24-27
New Life: Putting On God's Character
Welcome, Faith Force Truth Travelers! Today, we’re exploring how to live as God’s new creation and manage our emotions in healthy ways, as taught in Ephesians 4:24-27.
Verse Of The Day:
"Put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness. Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body. 'In your anger do not sin': Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold." (Ephesians 4:24-27)
Have you ever put on a costume that made you feel like a completely different person? In Ephesians 4:24-27, Paul tells us that following Jesus is like putting on a whole new self—one that is created to be like God!
When we follow Jesus, we don’t just try to be better people—we actually get to “put on” a brand new way of living that reflects God’s character. This new self is described as having “true righteousness and holiness,” which means we do what’s right and live in ways that honor God.
Paul then gives us some practical ways to live out this new identity:
First, we “put off falsehood and speak truthfully.” This means we stop lying and start being honest with everyone, because we’re all connected like parts of one body. When we lie to others, it’s like lying to ourselves!
Next, Paul gives us wise advice about anger: “In your anger do not sin.” This teaches us that feeling angry isn’t wrong—even Jesus felt angry sometimes! But we need to handle our anger in healthy ways that don’t hurt others or ourselves.
He says, “Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry.” This means we should try to resolve conflicts quickly instead of holding onto bad feelings. When we let anger stay inside us too long, it can grow into something harmful.
Finally, Paul warns us not to “give the devil a foothold.” This means that unresolved anger can become a place where bad attitudes and actions grow, so we need to deal with our feelings in healthy ways.
"New Self" Emotion Management Toolbox:
Decorate a small box or container to be your “New Self Toolbox.” Inside, place index cards with healthy ways to handle strong emotions like anger. Write ideas such as: “Take deep breaths,” “Tell God how I feel,” “Use ‘I feel’ statements instead of blaming,” “Ask for help to solve the problem,” “Take a break to calm down,” and “Forgive quickly.” Decorate each card with symbols that represent your new life in Christ. When you feel angry or upset, use your toolbox to help you respond in ways that honor God!
Time For A Prayer:
Dear God, thank You for giving us a new self that reflects Your character. Help us to be honest in all our words and actions. When we feel angry, show us how to handle those feelings in healthy ways that don't hurt others. Give us the courage to solve problems quickly and not let bad feelings grow. Help us to put on our new self every day, living with the righteousness and holiness that comes from You. Amen.
Keep putting on your new self, Faith Force Truth Travelers! Until our next Divine Dispatch, remember that God has given you a brand new identity that reflects His character. Let’s practice honest communication and healthy ways to handle our emotions!