Ephesians 2- Part 2

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Study and learn. Be changed.  Ephesians 2 Made Alive in Christ 1 As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, 2 in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. 3 All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our flesh[a] and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature deserving of wrath. 4 But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, 5 made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved. 6 And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, 7 in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. 8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9 not
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How to resolve conflict with anyone...

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For four or five weeks, we have had several Bible lessons on how to have a marriage that reflects God's Character and love.   Today, our pastor focused on how to resolve conflicts in marriage.... or in any relationship.   After 22 years of marriage, Russell and I have had a few conflicts... and have to FIGHT (ironically enough)  not to ignore conflicts, but to resolve them.  Our pastor took his findings from Ephesians 4:25-32.  


Ephesians 4:25-32


25 Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor, for we are all members of one body. 26 “In your anger do not sin”[d]: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, 27 and do not give the devil a foothold. 28 He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with his own hands, that he may have something to share with those in need.
29 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.

To resolve conflict you must
Be honest (vs 25).    Restrict anger (v. 26)    Keep current (v 26).    Recognize the enemy (and it isn't your spouse (v. 27)    Act responsibly (v. 28).   Speak graciously (v. 29).     Rely on God's Spirit (v. 30)    Deny sinful passions (v. 31).    Show kindness ( v. 32)    Readily Forgive (v. 32)

Works for us.... when we aren't
fighting for our own way.... due to  our own pride.   Fighting for what's right ...right along with you,
                                                                                                         Rachel

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