Malice Is Anti-Christ
The Old Testament word translated as ‘malice’ refers to destructive intent (NIDOTTE, v 3, p 744). The New Testament word for ‘malice’ (kakia) refers to ill-will or being mean-spirited (BDAG). It also includes the idea of trying to do evil to others (CWSD:NT, p 807), displaying a hard temperament toward another (EDBW, p 430), or malignity [a desire to harm others] (MCED).
There are many ways we can display malice or ill-will (Eph 4:31, LOP). All of these various forms of malice involve a failure to wish the good of another (Rom 12:14, NCV). Ill-will listens to slander and hurtful things said about others (Prov 17:4, Knox) instead of being willing to believe the best about someone (1 Cor 13:7, AB). It is a failure of both love and sincerity (Phil 1:17, Norlie). Hence, ill-will is destructive (Mk 15:10, Barclay). Among other things, malice destroys fellowship (TDNT, v 3, p 484). Like sinful anger, we must remove ill-will from our life (Col 3:8, Montgomery).
How do we avoid having ill-will? Filling ourselves with God’s Word is important, as is being humble (Jas 1:21, Norlie). If we are seeking to live by the Bible, we will not want or seek to harm another (Rom 13:10). We cultivate love, which is the result of being controlled by the Holy Spirit, and make a choice to wish others well. In addition, we avoid those things that can lead to ill-will: anger, jealousy, and insincerity. In short, we are to act like what we already are: saints who love others (1 Cor 5:8).
Good timing is an important part of healthy communication.