We think that grieving the Spirit is a spiritual mistake when it is an interpersonal-relationship mistake. “Do not grieve the Spirit” is given in the context of how we treat each other. When we do not forgive each other it offends the Spirit. Harsh talk to each other pricks the Spirit. What we say to each other, what we feel toward each other, all of this matters to the Spirit. Lord, may I not offend and grieve You by how I treat others!
“Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such a word as is good for edification according to the need of the moment, so that it will give grace to those who hear. Do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you” Ephesians 4:29-32 (NASB).
