Ephesians – Page 3 – Be Still…

Ephesians 5:1-5 – Imitate God

When you got up this morning, what was your first thought?

Maybe it was something like — “Is it morning already?” Or “It’s time to hit the gym.” Or “I better make a grocery list before I forget.” Or “Thank you, God, for another day to live to be more like you.”

Don’t feel bad if it wasn’t the latter. We can get caught up in the busyness of life. It’s bound to happen. Sometimes just getting a good night of sleep can be a challenge. I know from experience, however, that when my day starts in thanksgiving to God, my mindset is heading in the right direction. Continue reading “Ephesians 5:1-5 – Imitate God”

Ephesians 4:28-32 – How Should We Live?

Read Ephesians 4:28-32

This Chapter of Ephesians has been full of great insights on what a life in Christ should look like. How should we live as Christians? There are no “rules,” but we should not want to bring sorrow to God’s Holy Spirit. When you think of your behavior in that light, it’s quite simple.

If you’re a people pleaser like me, pleasing God should be the ultimate joy. Although when we put ourselves to that high standard, we fall short. We can’t help it. We just have to get up, brush ourselves off and try again. God is loving us no matter what we do. Continue reading “Ephesians 4:28-32 – How Should We Live?”

Ephesians 4:17-27 – It’s All About Unity

Read Ephesians 4:17-27

Because we are sinful humans, we tend to be at odds with each other. It was true for the folks in Ephesus, and it’s true for us today. Paul focuses on unity in the passages we are reading here, and there are some great nuggets of wisdom that stand the test of time.

Today we need to pick up a mirror. It’s easy for us to say we are pure and blameless. But when we look in the mirror, who do we see? If we are true to ourselves, we see a sinner who needs a savior. We see a believer who may be holding on to a grudge, judging their neighbor, or not trusting God with their life. Take a moment to really dig deep. There is something you lust for, something that is keeping you separated from God, something you need to cleanse. Continue reading “Ephesians 4:17-27 – It’s All About Unity”

Ephesians 4:7-16 – Speak Truth in Love

Read Ephesians 4:7-16

I don’t know about you, but I long for the day when people can speak the truth in love. Sometimes the truth hurts, and that’s okay. It’s the truth. When we can deliver the truth wrapped in love and compassion, it is received so much better. To do a better job of this, we need to become more Christlike in our relationships. So many relationships have been hurt when we miss this crucial piece. Continue reading “Ephesians 4:7-16 – Speak Truth in Love”

Ephesians 4:1-6 – Do Something

Read Ephesians 4:1-6

Today was an epiphany for me, and I just have to share it with you. Have you ever had an experience where you were absolutely certain God had a message for you? Today was one of those days for me. One of those times when it seems like several “coincidences” take place. I don’t know about you, but I look at “coincidences” as God sightings.

So here is my story. David and I had just said goodbye to my father who is newly transitioning into assisted living. I was feeling a little blue as we drove away. It wasn’t long before David plugged in a recording of a mindset call from one of my favorite coaches. Steve quoted lyrics from one of a song from Matthew West. It tied in so beautifully with the context of his call. I was beginning to feel so much better. Then, about an hour later, as we were getting closer to the St. Paul metro, I tuned in one of my favorite Christian radio stations. Guess what song was playing? It was a goosebump moment. Today’s reading feeds into that notion as well.

Here’s the Matthew West song, Do Something so you can listen in.

Continue reading “Ephesians 4:1-6 – Do Something”