In the final occurrence, we looked at Ephesians 4:30, and we see that our actions can actually have an impact on this seal of the Holy Spirit. We can actually make the Spirit sad or sorrowful. That is what grieved means. And we can do that with our actions. And if you look at the previous verses leading up to this one and the verse that follows, these actions are sinful actions that we do. It lists them as bitterness, wrath, anger, loud quarreling, and evil speaking, iniquity that we commit.
Now this list is not just a list, if you notice, of what not to do, but tells us what we should be doing. Not only does Paul say, do not lie, he says, speak the truth. If you get angry, do not sin and make sure you get over it before sunset. Do not steal. And not only do not steal, but get a job so you can help others. Go to work! Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but what is good and may impart grace to the hearers. Do we impart grace?
