Praise and Thanksgiving

Praise and Thanksgiving

Ephesians 5: ¹⁸ Do not get drunk with wine, which will only ruin you; instead, be filled with the Spirit. ¹⁹ Speak to one another with the words of psalms, hymns, and sacred songs; sing hymns and psalms to the Lord with praise in your hearts. ²⁰ In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, always give thanks for everything to God the Father.

 

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Parking in a tight parking lot, I carefully got out of my new vehicle. A careless guy opened his door quickly, nicking the paint on my new van. The newness was ruined and from that moment on, all I could see was the small dent and the nicked paint.

 

• I was focused only on the problem.
• All I could see was something to complain about.
• I replayed the action of the guy over and over, each time I saw the nick.

 

Paul gives everyone some advice for every situation. “Always give thanks for everything” were his difficult words. He had been beaten, jailed, chased and almost killed by those who opposed believing in JESUS. He had a lot to complain about, but gave a solid alternative.

 

My Observations

• Praise to GOD should be used as a cure of the problem.
• Seeing GOD’s  provision in my life takes practice.
• Giving thanks to GOD reduces my complaints and provides me with joy and cheer.

 

Staying in a state of complaining, worry and anger seems to be what the adversary wants. I mean, if I always have something to grouse about, I remain blind to the extreme blessings GOD has given me. I focus on the little problem and sometimes make it bigger in my mind each time I play out the words he or she may have said.

 

GOD gives me an alternative, namely praise and thanksgiving. HE doesn’t want me mad, sad or bad. HE provides in the middle of the storm and when problems seem to be at their greatest. I am thankful for all HE has done and I praise GOD for HIS greatness. Great is thy faithfulness!

 

Challenge

• Why do you think the writer starts off the warning with “do not get drunk?”
• What problems have you focused on and played over in your mind over and over?
• Will you take a moment to praise GOD when your troubles pop up in your mind and give GOD thanks when you feel troubled today? 

Choices

Choices

Ephesians 5: ¹⁵ So be careful how you live. Don't live like ignorant people, but like wise people. ¹⁶ Make good use of every opportunity you have, because these are evil days. ¹⁷ Don't be fools, then, but try to find out what the Lord wants you to do.

 

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“Come hang out with us” were the tempting words I would easily flock to . We stayed up late having “fun.” To my dismay, I woke up late for my shift. I was supposed to open the dorm office and I slept way past the time. I was fired.

 

• I did not do what I was supposed to be doing.
• I made a short term choice that was costly long term.
• I could not see any problem with my choice until I ran into the problem.

 

Short term thinking was an issue Paul was trying to address. People had, too often, given into what the world would say is “fun” or “okay.” After a while, their eyes were no longer fixed on GOD, but their own pleasure.

 

My Observations

• GOD made humor, laughter and pleasure for me to enjoy.
• GOD made my life for HIM so I must seek what HE wants me to do and allow HIM to provide me with pleasure.
• GOD wants me to seek wisdom and make good use of every opportunity given to me to serve HIM.

 

Every moment does not have to be a Bible teaching moment. I mean, I must have faith that I know what GOD says through HIS Word and place it in my heart. But there are moments GOD wants me to be ready to speak about HIM and HIS SON as the Savior of all mankind.

 

I can enjoy life while seeking what GOD wants me to do. Unfortunately, there are times when I want to seek what “I” want to do. This is classified as “foolish” or “ignorant” by the writer. Harsh? Not really. GOD has a plan for me each day that is not overwhelming. I am grateful HIS burdens on me are light.

 

Challenge

• What is the warning of the writer?
• Are there any changes you would like to make in your life but need some help?
• Will you seek what GOD wants you to do and release your fear of what you hold onto so you can be filled by HIS SPIRIT today?

Unhidden Strength

Unhidden Strength

Ephesians 5: ¹⁰ Try to learn what pleases the Lord. ¹¹ Have nothing to do with the worthless things that people do, things that belong to the darkness. Instead, bring them out to the light. (¹² It is really too shameful even to talk about the things they do in secret.) ¹³ And when all things are brought out to the light, then their true nature is clearly revealed; ¹⁴ for anything that is clearly revealed becomes light That is why it is said,

 

“Wake up, sleeper,
    and rise from death,
and Christ will shine on you.”

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When confronted by what I did, I replied “He or she made me do it!” It was the only thing I could think of at the time that would absolve me of being part of whatever was going on. Blame got me nowhere.

 

• I was upset that I got caught.
• I enjoyed the fruits of hidden sin, but did not enjoy when the sin came to light.
• I was getting weaker and weaker, the more I hid things.

 

Paul continues his plea of everyone to turn from hidden sinful ways. He gives a solution that would seem worthless, but was quite valuable. “Try to learn what pleases GOD” was the advice that would provide a better path.

 

My Observations

• What I used to think was weakness is strength, according to GOD.
• What I used to think was “too long” was short, according to GOD.
• What I used to think was generous, powerful, loving or righteous was weak, prideful, stubborn and shameful, according to GOD.

 

Using people as my measure, I compared myself to what others were doing. I gave myself a passing grade because I wasn’t robbing or killing or blatantly trying to harm people. But I was still sinning and hiding it by participating in groups that accepted my sin. I was far from righteous.

 

The term “there is strength in numbers” is absolutely false when it comes to sin. I cannot use the excuse “they made me do it” when I am confronted by GOD. Instead, HE wants me to “Wake up” and get off any deadly path hidden sin can bring. HE wants my ways to “become” light. I am glad HE picks up my brokenness when I fall and makes me stronger “after” failure.

 

Challenge

• Why is the writer talking about darkness and light?
• Have you ever paid attention to someone else’s life and pointed out their faults without admitting your own failures?
• Will you accept GOD’s strength and admit there may be some areas of your life that you have “fallen asleep” on so you can “Wake up” and learn what is pleasing to HIM today?

Living in the Light

Living in the Light

Ephesians 5: ⁶ Do not let anyone deceive you with foolish words; it is because of these very things that God's anger will come upon those who do not obey him. ⁷ So have nothing at all to do with such people. ⁸ You yourselves used to be in the darkness, but since you have become the Lord's people, you are in the light. So you must live like people who belong to the light, ⁹ for it is the light that brings a rich harvest of every kind of goodness, righteousness, and truth.

 

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Sneaking out the house under the cover of darkness, I was able to do what I wanted to do “without being detected.” In fact, many things I did that I did not want people to know, seemed to occur at night or in hidden moments.

 

• I was ashamed so I hid what I did.
• I was taught what was right and wanted to do wrong and hide it until I could figure out words to justify my actions.
• I did not want people to know the hidden side of me so I omitted the truth or ran with people who accepted what I was doing.

 

“Act like you belong to GOD” was the warning of Paul. He guided everyone to examine their old ways and to turn away from things that were not pleasing to GOD. This would come at a price. Some relationships would need to be severed and a new way of thinking needed to be pursued.

 

My Observations

• GOD wants to protect people from my dark ways.
• GOD wants me to turn from ways that are not pleasing to HIM so I can live for HIM without worry.
• GOD wants me to depend on HIS power to forgive and provide in the light.

 

Living in the light does not mean darkness goes away from my actions. I mean, I was born a sinner and this nature will remain until I am with CHRIST forever. But until then I have a choice that seems to fight each other.

 

People can easily fool me into believing something that is not pleasing to HIM or I can fool myself into falling away from GOD. BUT HE guides me back to HIM and gives me a better way to live. HE wants me to be brave enough expose my hidden sin so it will no longer have a hold on me. HIS light brings a rich harvest. I am glad HE brings goodness, righteousness and truth.

 

Challenge

• What is the writers warning to you?
• What does living in the light look like in your life?
• Will you examine yourself and see if there are ways that need to be brought to light so GOD can provide a rich harvest through you and in you today?

Declared Clean

Declared Clean

Ephesians 5: ³ Since you are God's people, it is not right that any matters of sexual immorality or indecency or greed should even be mentioned among you. ⁴ Nor is it fitting for you to use language which is obscene, profane, or vulgar. Rather you should give thanks to God. ⁵ You may be sure that no one who is immoral, indecent, or greedy (for greed is a form of idolatry) will ever receive a share in the Kingdom of Christ and of God.

 

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“How did I get here?” I asked myself. My “friends” were doing things that, at one point, I would have considered low down and underhanded. After a while, I was doing the same stuff or possibly worse. I was in trouble and had no one to help because they were in trouble too.

 

• I was afraid to turn to GOD because my sins were piling up.
• I was nervous of facing the consequences of my decisions.
• I felt unclean, broken and worthless.

 

“Act right!” was seemingly the plea of Paul as he addressed how people were behaving. He saw the people give themselves over to sexual immorality, indecent behavior and obscene, profane and vulgar language. Greed had permeated their every thought. The warning was stern.

 

My Observations

• If I confess my sins GOD is faithful and just to forgive me of my sins and cleanse me of all unrighteousness.
• I need to repent or turn away from my sins to mature in CHRIST.
• Nothing vulgar, obscene or greedy in me will be useful to GOD.

 

“Impossible” was my first reaction to this list. I mean I had pretty much committed the whole list and felt I had no place in GOD’s kingdom. Then I reread the first part of the passage. “Since you ARE GOD’s people.” GOD is the one who declared me righteous, not because of me or any action I did, rather it was because of JESUS and HIS action for me.

 

When JESUS died for me and was raised from the dead, I was now able to be cleansed of all my sins, past present and future. I was declared clean. But those who refuse the wonderful gift GOD has to offer will remain declared unclean. Salvation gives me freedom to choose GOD’s way. I am grateful HE guides me to sometimes choose HIM.

 

Challenge

• What “share” is the writer speaking of?
• Whether you agree or disagree with the list, what does improving your own life look like?
• Have you ever had a complaint about your bank account being low or for not having enough?
• Will you give thanks to GOD for what you have and where HE has you so you can grow in the way HE wants you to grow today?

 

Controlled Life

Controlled Life

Ephesians 5: Since you are God's dear children, you must try to be like him. ² Your life must be controlled by love, just as Christ loved us and gave his life for us as a sweet-smelling offering and sacrifice that pleases God.

 

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Finally deciding to graduate, I focused on studying. I disappeared from having “fun” and focused on what I was supposed to do. It worked! I applied this focus on pursuing lustful items such as power, sex, and money. Each took time and controlled my life in its pursuit.

 

• I could not stop until I got what I wanted.
• I lost sleep over fruitless pursuits.
• I was controlled by the pleasures of life rather than something more solid.

 

Being adopted into a family means acting like the family. This overall behavior was the plea of Paul to everyone who believed in GOD. Since we cannot be GOD we can try to be like HIM on some level. The one way to be like GOD is to love like HIM.

 

My Observations

• GOD’s definition of “love” is far greater than anything I can imagine.
• JESUS provided me with the ultimate example of “love.”
• “Love” is an eternal pursuit that GOD wants for me.

 

Getting my way is not love. I mean, GOD says no to many of my requests, especially when they are harmful to others or myself. When I don’t get “my” way, I pout and question GOD’s “love.” HE forgives my childish tantrums and opens my eyes to the sacrifice JESUS made.

 

Humans were created out of love, for love by love. GOD is pure love and cannot be tainted. JESUS controlled HIS life out of love. HE never wavered from HIS purpose. I am glad JESUS forgives me daily and I ask for the tiniest bit of HIS love to control my life.

 

Challenge

• How does the writer appeal to everyone?
• Have you ever had something control your life like work or an addiction or loneliness?
• Will you let go of the things that easily control you and allow GOD to fill empty spaces in your heart with overflowing love for yourself and others today?

Instead

Instead

Ephesians 4: ²⁹ Do not use harmful words, but only helpful words, the kind that build up and provide what is needed, so that what you say will do good to those who hear you. ³⁰ And do not make God's Holy Spirit sad; for the Spirit is God's mark of ownership on you, a guarantee that the Day will come when God will set you free. ³¹ Get rid of all bitterness, passion, and anger. No more shouting or insults, no more hateful feelings of any sort. ³² Instead, be kind and tender-hearted to one another, and forgive one another, as God has forgiven you through Christ.

 

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Nervous to use “bad words”, I kept my conversation to a minimum. Unfortunately this particular day was my turn to be picked on by thugs and by some, who I thought were my friends. I blurted out some curse words I had heard over the years. Laughter came from all over. “You don’t even know how to curse!” someone said.

 

• I was embarrassed so I practiced harmful words to keep them available, just in case.
• I wanted to fit in and rationalized that no words were really “bad” words, they were just words.
• I wanted to “vent” and to tell these people off so they would leave me alone!

 

Paul had a huge task in front of him. He was addressing verbal fights and numerous arguments. This divisiveness led to passive and overt attacks on one another that was used to tear people down. GOD gave another path through Paul’s writing.

 

My Observations

• Instead of my first reaction to combative situations, I have to quiet down and listen to GOD.
• Instead of festering over what is making me angry, I need to seek GOD’s peace.
• Instead of becoming bitter, lustful or enraged, I must first find another way, namely ask the HOLY SPIRIT for help.

 

“Do not make GOD’s HOLY SPIRIT sad” are strange words that stick out to me. I mean, all powerful GOD can be hurt by my words and choices? Apparently HE can. My guess is HE knows how harmful my words and actions can really be to others and to myself. HE also knows the consequences of my choices and how detrimental they will be later in life or eternity.

 

GOD wants me to “be” forgiven and “feel” forgiven. HE forgives me forever, but when I sin or want to hurt people because of a bitter heart, I do not “feel” forgiven which causes me to spiral into harmful ways. GOD wants me to be built up so HE gives me to opportunity to use “helpful words” to build others up to serve HIM. I am glad HE forgives me and you.

 

Challenge.

• What is the overall plea of the writer?
• How would you like to be treated by others?
• Will you take GOD’s advice and please the HOLY SPIRIT by being “kind”, “tender hearted” and “forgiving” to one another today?

Becoming Secure

Becoming Secure

Ephesians 4: ²⁵ No more lying, then! Each of you must tell the truth to the other believer, because we are all members together in the body of Christ. ²⁶ If you become angry, do not let your anger lead you into sin, and do not stay angry all day. ²⁷ Don't give the Devil a chance. ²⁸ If you used to rob, you must stop robbing and start working, in order to earn an honest living for yourself and to be able to help the poor. 

 

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“Fine” was the lying reply I used to the question “How are you?” to keep from telling the truth that many aspects of my life were falling apart. I did not want to continuously be a burden and I wasn’t feeling secure enough to tell the truth.

 

• I felt insecure so I answered questions in ways to avoid conversations where I looked pitiful.
• I felt frustrated so I let my anger guide my mouth and other actions.
• I felt deserving so I listened to temptations and fell into sin.

 

Paul speaks with a very direct tone when addressing specific examples of old ways to turn from. He sees that some were acting out of their insecurities and falling into the trap of lying to others and themselves. He gives guidelines to enable self-control.

 

My Observations

• Security is something GOD wants me to place in HIM.
• Anger is allowed but requires me to communicate to GOD so HE can diffuse it.
• Broader thinking and surrender is something GOD wants me to add to my choices.

 

Thinking of protecting myself, I can easily fall into lies, get angry and even consider robbing others by stealing money, people or credit for something he or she should be credited for. The old childish ways of insecurity gives the Devil a chance all the time. BUT GOD provides a way out.

 

HE shows me that I am part of a larger family of sick and hurt people. No one is more superior than the next. I can tell the truth about my situation because the next person needs to hear what I am experiencing. Self-control is part of the fruit of the SPIRIT. I am glad GOD offers me a way back to HIS path by becoming secure in HIS love for me.

 

Challenge

• Why do you think the writer gives this strong warning?
• Have you ever fallen for some items listed and found out things were worse?
• What insecurities are you battling that make you question GOD’s true love for you?
• Will you become more secure by letting go of some of your self-protection and allow GOD to provide the answer in HIS way and time?

Breaking Old Habits

Breaking Old Habits

Ephesians 4: ¹⁷ In the Lord's name, then, I warn you: do not continue to live like the heathen, whose thoughts are worthless ¹⁸ and whose minds are in the dark. They have no part in the life that God gives, for they are completely ignorant and stubborn. ¹⁹ They have lost all feeling of shame; they give themselves over to vice and do all sorts of indecent things without restraint.

 

²⁰ That was not what you learned about Christ! ²¹ You certainly heard about him, and as his followers you were taught the truth that is in Jesus. ²² So get rid of your old self, which made you live as you used to—the old self that was being destroyed by its deceitful desires. ²³ Your hearts and minds must be made completely new, ²⁴ and you must put on the new self, which is created in God's likeness and reveals itself in the true life that is upright and holy.

 

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Scared and shamed, I peeped through the hole in the door of the women’s locker room at school. This made me want the “real thing.” In college I progressed to “the real thing”, but did it under the cover of night. Someone said to me “I saw your car parked overnight in front of a certain dorm.” He was proud of me.

 

• I was no longer shamed.
• I was progressing down a path where I was led by my desires.
• I was ready to defend the dangerous path I was on in an ignorant and stubborn way.

 

Paul is very direct with his words as he addressed a concern with those who had given up on following purity as a means of worshipping GOD. Their lying minds had put them on a path where they were no longer ashamed of their actions, rather they had found a crowd who accepted their deceitful desires.

 

My Observations

• Only GOD can provide a new heart and mind for me.
• When life seems hopeless, I have a new self I can put on that is made by GOD.
• GOD’s likeness is a way of life that I can strive for.

 

Getting rid of old habits is not always easy. I mean, when life’s pressures come knocking on my heart, I want to throw away self-control and indulge in the ways of the world for a moment of pleasure. BUT GOD wants different.

 

HE offers a better way that is full of life. GOD has a life that is full of truth which is upright and holy. HIS path is always right and HIS rewards will never fall away. I gladly surrender my life to GOD, daily.

 

Challenge

• Was the message of the writer shocking to you?
• Is there any part of you that seems to keep you from growing up that you struggle with?
• Will you believe GOD gives you another chance daily because HE is willing to wipe away your sins?
• Will you remain encouraged and ask GOD for HIS help with keeping you on HIS path so you can put on the “new self” as the answer with a new heart and new mind today?

Made Specific

Made Specific

Ephesians 4: ¹⁶ Under his control all the different parts of the body fit together, and the whole body is held together by every joint with which it is provided. So when each separate part works as it should, the whole body grows and builds itself up through love.

 

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Waking up slightly later than usual, I realized I had to catch a flight. I rushed out the house and sped to the airport. To my dismay, the traffic getting into the parking garage was fierce. I ran to the gate only to watch the plane pull away. I was supposed to present my part to a client that afternoon in another city.

 

• I was not available to present my part.
• I was part of a team and I had a specific role.
• I did not do my part as I should have.

 

Under the control of JESUS, Paul explains that each person has a specific role to play. HE made each person different to play a specific role in the whole body.

 

My Observations

• GOD wants me to surrender my life so HE can be in control.
• GOD made me specifically to grow the body.
• GOD wants me to do my part to build the body up in HIS love.

 

Human love is incomplete. I mean, one person has a tiny piece of love, but not the totality. Under the control of JESUS, we are put together as one single body. Each person has a specific role to play in HIS love.

 

Every action placed under HIS control has a purpose that HE uses to draw HIS kingdom together. HE knows where the missing pieces fit and each piece is just as important as the next. I am grateful GOD made me to be part of HIS family and has given me a specific purpose.

 

Challenge

• What concern is the writer addressing?
• Do you feel alone or feel as if you are not quite fitting in?
• Will you enjoy the fact that GOD made you for a specific role and needs you to do your part so HE can reach those who HE will draw to HIMSELF through you today?

All Grown Up

All Grown Up

Ephesians 4: ¹⁴ Then we shall no longer be children, carried by the waves and blown about by every shifting wind of the teaching of deceitful people, who lead others into error by the tricks they invent. ¹⁵ Instead, by speaking the truth in a spirit of love, we must grow up in every way to Christ, who is the head.

 

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Wanting to fit in, I went along with the group’s teachings. “Party while you can!” was the philosophy I had accepted. As we drank our problems away, something seemed wrong. Nothing was getting better. The suggestions from my party “friends” were not working.

 

• I was open to the philosophy of the day.
• I was easily tossed around by those who were deemed the expert of that day.
• I had fallen into a trap where “I” was looking to become the answer, so I followed and admired people who had huge followings.

 

Paul spoke about using GOD given gifts to build up the body of CHRIST. By doing so, maturity follows. “Then we shall no longer be children.” He was shown by JESUS that it took putting faith into action to avoid the dangers listening to the philosophy of the day. We must grow up.

 

My Observations

• GOD wants me to grow up to see HIM as the answer versus being the problem.
• GOD wants me to use discernment to listen to the gentle words of the HOLY SPIRIT.
• GOD wants me to use my spiritual gifts for HIS purpose to grow up in every way to CHRIST, who is the head.

 

Growing up is different for everyone. I mean, I may be older but still immature. On the other hand, someone else may be young in age but have godly wisdom. The goal is to grow up to be like JESUS. Satan tried to take HIM off center by offering HIM wealth, power and food, representing health. JESUS never fell for HIS temptations and stayed true to HIS purpose.

 

When I use the gifts JESUS gave me, I grow, little by little. I don’t get tossed by the news of the day which would take me away from my trust in GOD. I am grateful for the SPIRIT of love GOD has poured out on me and my hope is to walk toward JESUS daily.

 

Challenge

• Why do you think the writer uses the analogy of a child being blown about by every shifting wind?
• What does it mean to stand firm for your beliefs in JESUS?
• Have you ever been taken off of your belief in GOD, only to find more trouble?
• Will you place your trust in the LORD so you will not fall for tricks invented by those who desire to get their way, and speak the truth about JESUS who provides love and direction today?

Putting Gifts to Use

Putting Gifts to Use

Ephesians 4: ¹¹ It was he who “gave gifts to people”; he appointed some to be apostles, others to be prophets, others to be evangelists, others to be pastors and teachers. ¹² He did this to prepare all God's people for the work of Christian service, in order to build up the body of Christ. ¹³ And so we shall all come together to that oneness in our faith and in our knowledge of the Son of God; we shall become mature people, reaching to the very height of Christ's full stature.

 

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Seeing the mural, I was amazed! Someone had illustrated major events of the Bible in a way I could understand. Another person I ran into was very talented in growing gardens. She mentioned how it reminded her of bearing fruit and had many analogies.

 

• I thought gifts were only limited to being used in church.
• I limited gifts to churchy tests and certain language used only in churches.
• I wondered if I had any gifts because the church did not seem to value what I had to offer.

 

JESUS “gave gifts to people” according to the scripture. Paul explains that each gift given would be put to use for the work of the Christian service. The list he gives can sometimes be confused by activities defined in many churches. GOD’s appointment is sovereign and is above human definitions.

 

My Observations

• GOD wants me to build up the body of CHRIST
• GOD wants me to come together in oneness in faith and knowledge of the SON of GOD.
• GOD wants me to mature and someday reach the height of JESUS.

 

Overlooked talents cause many people to become disenchanted with churches. I mean, a person who is gifted in welding may want to use his or her talents, but is asked to work in children’s church instead. People who have many gifts may be apostles or prophets or evangelists or pastors or teachers and they do not even know it.

 

A writer may, in fact, be using her talents to glorify GOD in many ways. Some people who smile may be evangelizing as he walks down the street. A woman lying in a bed may invoke prayer. Limiting GOD has caused people to think their talent is useless. Quite the opposite. The gift HE gave each person is customized to reach others in HIS defined way. I am glad HE provided me with gifts that do not need to be compared to, or evaluated by other people’s gifts.

 

Challenge

• What is a mature response to what the writer wrote?
• Do you have gifts and talents that seem to be overlooked by people?
• Will you put your gifts and talents to use for the service of building up the body of CHRIST, knowing your gift is extremely important to GOD today?

Highest Admiration

Highest Admiration

Ephesians 4: ⁹ Now, what does “he went up” mean? It means that first he came down to the lowest depths of the earth. ¹⁰ So the one who came down is the same one who went up, above and beyond the heavens, to fill the whole universe with his presence. 

 

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Reaching levels was a thing that was taught to me. One grade gave me golden stars for every level I achieved in reading. This thought of levels translated to types of work I did later in life. I admired those who were “above me” in level. I talked about him or her with high regard.

 

• I thought titles meant importance.
• I thought people were supposed to be treated differently because of their title or academic achievements.
• I thought power meant obtaining a following where people would grab onto every word “I” said.

 

Paul poses a tough question in the letter he wrote. “What does ‘HE went up’ mean?” was the poignant question to provoke thought. He then answers by explaining what JESUS taught him. He talked about levels.

 

My Observations

• JESUS, who was and is GOD, became a lowly human to die for me.
• JESUS sacrificial death and resurrection enabled HIM to be placed above everything.
• JESUS’s act of love is recognized by the entire universe.

 

It’s easy to admire or even envy other humans as gods. I mean, when I want to be somebody, I may look at what others consider somebody. I then try to be like him or her and fail miserably. I may sometimes achieve a level and think I am “above” people.

 

BUT GOD is the only one who is above all. No human level or achievement can match HIS greatness. HE knows all, sees all and is everywhere. JESUS was given the highest honor of being placed above all. I bow down to JESUS who is my Savior.

 

Challenge

• What levels is the writer speaking about?
• Have you ever admired someone because of his or her title or accomplishments?
• Will you place a higher admiration on the one who is above race, gender and situations, namely JESUS, today?

Already Inside

Already Inside

Ephesians 4: ⁷ Each one of us has received a special gift in proportion to what Christ has given. ⁸ As the scripture says,

“When he went up to the very heights,
    he took many captives with him;
    he gave gifts to people.”

 

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Doubting my capabilities, I wondered if there was a way out of where I was. I looked at the circumstances and my own capabilities and I could not see a way to the future the world would consider “successful.” I had no money, no connections and I felt I did not have any talent.

 

• I did not feel special.
• I did not feel valued.
• I did not feel needed or wanted.

 

Unity was the message the HOLY SPIRIT gave to Paul to give to everyone. Each person is unique and is special to GOD. JESUS did something phenomenal. HE gave gifts to many and declared each special to HIM.

 

My Observations

• CHRIST gave me gifts that no one else has.
• CHRIST gave other people gifts that I need to appreciate.
• CHRIST wants me to unite with HIM to bring all HIS sheep together because HE is the Good Shepherd.

 

Gifts were made by GOD for HIS purpose. I mean, HE gave us all the capability of reaching other people for HIM in our own unique way. Unfortunately we have an adversary who wants us to use our gifts for self. We chase the world, seeking more and more of it, sometimes abandoning our GOD-given gifts.

 

BUT GOD saw this and accounted for it. HE gave us the HOLY SPIRIT to live inside each person who believe in JESUS as the Savior. The HOLY SPIRIT guides us back to using our special gift to bring honor and glory to GOD> I am thankful GOD made the gifts HE gave me and I gladly use all for HIM.

 

Challenge

• Why do you think JESUS had to leave the world to get the gifts HE gave?
• What gifts do you consider insignificant that may be overlooked?
• Will you seek your gifts by asking GOD “Who do YOU want me to be today and who do YOU want me to reach for YOU in my own way?”

Glue of Peace

Glue of Peace

Ephesians 4: ³ Do your best to preserve the unity which the Spirit gives by means of the peace that binds you together. ⁴ There is one body and one Spirit, just as there is one hope to which God has called you. ⁵ There is one Lord, one faith, one baptism; ⁶ there is one God and Father of all people, who is Lord of all, works through all, and is in all.

 

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Seeking to “win”, we met as a team. One group was doing things different than the way we expected. We met to counter what they were doing and came up with a plan. None of us slept well when that plan failed. We were tired of the battle.

 

• I thought “I” could be right as long as I was on the winning side.
• I figured something was “wrong” with them because a group of us saw things a certain way.
• I was ready to “fight” and lost sleep because I was trying to do my part to control other people.

 

Paul urges everyone to “preserve the unity” which is given by the HOLY SPIRIT. He then explains what that looks like, just in case people were seeking a relative truth. He points to the only winning side, namely to follow CHRIST.

 

• There is one body and one SPIRIT and one hope that GOD has called me to.
• There is one LORD, one faith and one baptism to which I base my life.
• There is one GOD and FATHER of all people who is LORD of all, works through all and is in all, even a sinner like me.

 

Peace is what the HOLY SPIRIT uses to bind all of us together. I mean, when I am at peace, problems seem smaller, aches seem to go away faster and the future seems brighter. But when I feel discontent, people are a problem, circumstances seem to linger forever, I lose sleep and aches and pains nag at me.

 

Discontent seems to be the enemy of peace. This can breed in me the feeling that I need to fight or control or “lose.” BUT GOD wants me bound together with HIS family. HE knows how messy my life can be and wants me to have peace anyway so I can be unified with other messy people. I am glad GOD gives me “one” path

 

Challenge

• What “unity” is the writer speaking of?
• Have you ever looked at other people as being the cause of your problems?
• What accountability is GOD calling you to?
• Will you take “blame” or “discontent” or “rage” from your first actions and replace it with “unity” by means of “peace” from the HOLY SPIRIT today?

Boundless Power

Boundless Power

Ephesians 4: I urge you, then—I who am a prisoner because I serve the Lord: live a life that measures up to the standard God set when he called you. ² Be always humble, gentle, and patient. Show your love by being tolerant with one another.

 

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“Are you okay?” I asked one of the thugs who’s life seemed to be centered on making everyone miserable. He had fallen after holding onto a car and sliding on his heels down the icy street. Years later he reminded me that I said a kind word. I did not even remember saying it.

 

• I wanted to react with a fight or rage when being bullied.
• I wanted to point and say “That’s what you get” when someone I did not like got hurt.
• I wanted to finally “win” when it felt like I was losing to the bullies, tormentors and tyrants.

 

Jailed for speaking about JESUS, Paul wrote a letter. His chains could not stop his love for the people. He urged everyone to stay focused by showing humility, gentleness and patience. These could not be stopped.

 

My Observations

• The HOLY SPIRIT gives me an alternative way that is humble.
• The HOLY SPIRIT reminds me to be gentle.
• The HOLY SPIRIT tells me to slow down and be patient.

 

Humans may trap me in ways that seem unfair. I mean, overt and passive bullies try to get their way instead of GOD’s way. BUT GOD gives me a standard that I can follow. I do not have to look at my circumstance as “the measure” rather I can choose humbleness, gentleness and patience as my “measure” for success.

 

When I have shown these to others who may not even be receptive, GOD says “Well done good and faithful servant.” It also relieves me of how the world constantly says “You don’t measure up.” I am glad GOD’s measure of me is through HIS SON and not my actions.

 

Challenge

• What is the heart of the writer?
• Have you ever wanted to fight or get back at someone or been enraged?
• Will you seek any part of the small list given in this passage as an alternative to your first reaction to fulfill GOD’s calling on your life today?

So Much More

So Much More

Ephesians 3: ²⁰ To him who by means of his power working in us is able to do so much more than we can ever ask for, or even think of: ²¹ to God be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus for all time, forever and ever! Amen.

 

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When I bought the car, I was excited. “I no longer have to take the bus” was my primary reason for being elated. When I had an accident which totaled the car, I realized I had no transportation to get to and from work. I also could not easily bring groceries home or not get wet as I walked to work in the rain.

 

• I could only see some things from a narrow perspective.
• I overlooked the usefulness of some things until those things were gone.
• I realized some things had more value than I originally understood.

 

Paul concludes his prayer by pointing to GOD. He explains that GOD is able to do so much more than we could ever ask for or imagine. He gives praise to GOD through CHRIST JESUS for all time!

 

My Observations

• GOD does not mind when I ask HIM for small things because HE is so much more.
• GOD knows that I cannot understand HIS power, but HE works in me anyway.
• GOD appreciates when I give HIM praise and when I recognize HE is bigger than my current situation.

 

Knowing that GOD is so much more, brings me hope. I mean, when I cannot see a way out and I am circled by difficulties, GOD makes a way for me and clears my path. HE has done this consistently, over and over and over again. Unfortunately I still doubt HIM.

 

HE forgives my doubt and works in me anyway. HE is bigger than my fears or worries. HE is the one who holds everything and will never forget me. I am grateful HE is larger than my imagination and I praise HIS greatness!

 

Challenge

• Why do you think the writer mentions requests in this part of the prayer?
• Have you ever limited GOD or doubted HIS love for you because of your circumstances?
• Will you see beyond your requests or circumstances and know GOD is so much more than you can ever imagine?

Roomy Inside

Roomy Inside

Ephesians 3: ¹⁶ I ask God from the wealth of his glory to give you power through his Spirit to be strong in your inner selves, ¹⁷ and I pray that Christ will make his home in your hearts through faith. I pray that you may have your roots and foundation in love, ¹⁸ so that you, together with all God's people, may have the power to understand how broad and long, how high and deep, is Christ's love. ¹⁹ Yes, may you come to know his love—although it can never be fully known—and so be completely filled with the very nature of God.

 

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After being mugged at a certain train stop, I thought of ways to avoid going back. When I absolutely had to go there, I thought of ways to be safe, so I walked in the middle of the crowd. I narrowed my routes to safe routes, or maybe not even going out at all.

 

• Fear made me narrow my thinking.
• Worry made me focus on “what bad could happen.”
• Doubt made me insecure.

 

Difficulties and hardship were the norm for Paul. He had been jailed, beaten and almost put to death because of his belief in JESUS. This unglamorous life required more than surface actions. It required faith. This was the only place large enough to hold GOD.

 

My Observations

• My heart is too small for GOD to live in so HE adds faith to stretch it so HE can fit.
• Circumstances attempt to make my heart small BUT GOD lives inside me to give me inner peace.
• Situations may tempt me to use hatred as the answer, BUT GOD provides the true foundation of love from which HE builds a home in my heart.

 

Trying to use GOD for personal gain is small heart thinking. I mean, when I think of my own desires, other people cannot fit in my heart. GOD wants me to align to HIS desires. HE wants all HIS flock to be saved through belief in JESUS.

 

HE spreads this perfect message of love and forgiveness through imperfect people. HE and HE alone provides inner peace. I may never know just how broad and long, how high and deep CHRIST’s love is for me, but I am willing to learn a little so HE can live in me.

 

Challenge

• Where does the writer say true power comes from?
• Have you ever had situations and circumstances that caused you to have fear, worry or doubt?
• Will you place your faith in JESUS who will provide the HOLY SPIRIT, giving you access to the FATHER who forgives, loves and fills you from emptiness today?

True Identity

True Identity

Ephesians 3: ¹⁴ For this reason I fall on my knees before the Father, ¹⁵ from whom every family in heaven and on earth receives its true name. 

 

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As I was walking down the hall someone shouted a negative label at me. My youthful response was to get a large friend and threaten a fight. The label was not who I was so it enraged me.

 

• I reacted to a false label.
• I wasted time and energy over something that was not true.
• I was not ready to take the high road so I stooped down to fight.

 

Paul uncovers something interesting. He says each person has a “true name” which implies the family name I have is false. HE was revealed that GOD provides purpose through a name.

 

My Observations

• My true identity will be revealed to me when I am with the FATHER.
• I will one day understand my true purpose in union with CHRIST.
• Knowing I have a true name gives me hope.

 

People want to be GOD so we label each other in ways to make others feel inferior. BUT GOD is supreme and is the only one who holds the true label of HIS creation. HE made each person carefully and with a special purpose. Unfortunately, there is an adversary who lies and confuses people to seek a worldly identity.

 

People are separated and lied to so JESUS becomes a problem rather than the only solution. Political thieves try to hijack the name of JESUS but fail miserably because GOD knows HIS true flock. I am glad GOD holds my identity and has adopted me into HIS glorious family.

 

Challenge

• Why does the writer appeal to identity when entering into prayer?
• Have you ever been called a false label or possibly mislabeled yourself?
• Will you stop seeking validation from the world and know you are loved fully by GOD who holds your true purpose and identity in CHRIST who is our Savior today?

With All Confidence

 

With All Confidence

Ephesians 3: God, who is the Creator of all things, kept his secret hidden through all the past ages, ¹⁰ in order that at the present time, by means of the church, the angelic rulers and powers in the heavenly world might learn of his wisdom in all its different forms. ¹¹ God did this according to his eternal purpose, which he achieved through Christ Jesus our Lord. ¹² In union with Christ and through our faith in him we have the boldness to go into God's presence with all confidence. ¹³ I beg you, then, not to be discouraged because I am suffering for you; it is all for your benefit.

 

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Evaluating what I had done on the previous day, I could not think of a specific “sin” that warranted this type of disaster. Everything had gone wrong this particular day and I asked GOD, “What’s going on?” in a “Why me” sort of fashion.

 

• I thought I could control GOD by sinning less.
• I thought my sins would get a reaction out of GOD, causing HIM to punish me.
• I thought I was the cause of the disaster because maybe I overlooked a sin.

 

GOD’s plan was immense and hidden until JESUS was revealed. Paul wrote about this huge plan that was laid out and executed by GOD. Redemption happened through JESUS, making the impossible, possible. Sin could no longer stop anyone from going into GOD’s presence to ask for anything and to be forgiven.

 

My Observations

• GOD’s power is far greater than I can something “I” can harness.
• GOD’s wisdom is manifested in many forms I can see daily.
• GOD’s purpose cannot be stopped, even by some sins I do or not do.

 

Thinking I am in control of GOD makes me lose my confidence. I mean, When I want things to go a specific way, I may try to act “good” during the period of time I am seeking my desire. Unfortunately, if I get what I want, I sometimes forget that the blessing came from GOD and return to sinful ways.

 

BUT GOD saw this fickle behavior and added it to HIS plan, HE knew HE needed something fool proof. Redemption needed to be permanent and indestructible. When JESUS was raised from the dead, HE opened the door to the FATHER to anyone who will walk in. I am glad I can confidently go to the FATHER because of what JESUS did for me.

 

Challenge

• Who is the focus of the writer?
• Have you ever been discouraged, thinking you were the problem?
• Will you praise GOD for HIS eternal purpose and walk into HIS presence because JESUS made a way to HIM for you?