Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God's holy people. Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving. (Ephesians 5:1-4 NIV)
Now it's your turn. Take a look at this passage above and identify the good boxes (thoughts) and bad boxes (thoughts) that are listed here. Add them to your lists. Look for duplicates.
Compare the lists to the way you think. Do you agree with God's definition of good? Do you agree with His definition of bad? Change your mind to match His.
This is the difficult part. Don't skip past the list now. Begin thinking about your actual life over the past days, weeks, and months. How well have you "thrown away the bad" and "held on to the good?" Have your words consistently expressed thanksgiving to God, or have you found yourself expressing some of the "bad box" items on this list. Have your actions consistently reflected what is proper for "God's holy people," or have you found yourself giving even more than a "hint" of the bad box items?
When we fall short of His standard, that's the perfect time to turn back to God. That's called repentance. Agree with Him. Turn back to Him. Receive forgiveness from Him. Then...you will experience the peace of a clear conscience.
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