22As far as your former way of life is concerned, you were taught from the very beginning to put off your old sinful nature, that old self that was corrupted by its deceitful desires.23Instead you were made new with a totally different mindset.24And you made the decision to put on the new life which enables you to become what God wants you to be, living in ways that are right in His eyes, being His holy people, set apart from the world to live the life of His Kingdom here on earth.25So it is essential for each of you to rid yourselves completely of everything that is false and instead speak truthfully to others; for we are all members of the one body of Christ, a body of truth!26-27It is said, "even if you are angry do not sin". Do not hold onto your anger; be rid of it before the end of the day, otherwise you could give the devil a foothold to take advantage of you.28Anyone who used to steal in his old life must, of course, no longer steal. Instead he must have a proper job, working for his living by doing something useful with his hands. Then, instead of taking he will have something to give to needy people.29Do not speak in an impure or critical way. Instead of mouthing unclean or negative things, speak in a way that will encourage and benefit others because you are addressing their needs.30And do not grieve God's Holy Spirit in any way. Remember you have had the seal of the Spirit placed on you to keep you walking in God's ways until the day when He takes you to be with Himself.31Rid yourselves of every negative thing, being bitter in your attitudes, being angry and resentful. Do not get into disputes with others, especially physical ones! Do not slander others or have any malicious attitudes towards them.32Instead be kind and compassionate to one another, always ready to forgive in the same way that, through Christ, God has always been willing to forgive you!
Scripture quoted by permission. The passage above is taken from THE TRUTH VERSION. Copyright © 2009 by Colin Urquhart. All rights reserved worldwide. (The Truth New Testament)