Ephesians 4:27

give place to the devil The rendering suggested by some, "to the calumniator," the heathen or Jewish slanderer, is quite untenable, in view of St Paul's use elsewhere of the word diabolos(lit., "Accuser") for the great Enemy.

" Give place" :as to one who would fain intrude at a half-open door, intent on occupying the house. Personal anger gives just such a point d'appuito the Spirit of pride and hatred. "Wherever the devil finds a heart shut, he finds a door open" (Monod). And this is true not of individuals only, but of the Church and its life.