Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator. Colossians 3:9-10

This verse first became important to me last fall while studying Colossians. My first instinct was to read it only as “don’t say untrue things.” While I’m sure that the message is that we are not supposed to be deceitful, I was also struck by its context. The preceding verse says, “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)

I think Paul is really emphasizing that we shouldn’t lie by covering up those negative feelings. In Christian circles especially, it’s easy to feel like “I shouldn’t be angry,” so we deny any negative feeling. Instead of honestly acknowledging them and letting God deal with them, we stuff them under a pious lid. This passage in Colossians encouraged me to be willing to confess anger and hostility and then ask God to change my heart, and He does!

It’s important to note that this doesn’t necessarily mean I have to tell person with whom I am angry. Often, it’s my own attitude problem, and it’s better to let God clean that up first. I don’t want to vent at others, but I can always pour out my heart to God.

Paul also connects the idea of speaking truthfully and anger in Ephesians 4:25-27 and then continues with “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:32)

Once I have honestly addressed my negative feelings with God, I am free to be kind and compassionate.