Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. 30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. 32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you (Ephesians 4:29-32)
A few weeks ago, I inadvertently forgot to roll the trash can to the road for pickup. As I begin to hear the garbage trucks in the neighborhood-stopping and starting, it did not initially dawn on me. But when it finally hit me, I jumped from the bed and rushed outside. Realizing I had been missed, I drug my can to the other side of the street in hopes that I still had time. I glanced at my neighbor’s can and I realized it had already been picked up too!
What was I to do? The can was full and beginning to smell and I couldn’t imagine another week with that same trash. In the distance I could see the truck about to round the corner. In my pajamas and bare feet, I headed in a hurry down the street to catch up with the crew- completely determined to get the trash out. I could hear the gentleman hollering- maam it’s ok we will come back and get it. By then my momentum was up so I continued. Sensing my determination, he met me grabbed the can, tossed the trash and back home I went.
How far would you go to get the trash out? Not just the physical but the spiritual, emotional and financial issues of life? I hope like me, you will go the distance and do whatever is necessary to get the trash out!