Ephesians 4:1 – 5:20 (Continued)

April 29, 2013

When self is in control God's plan for unity gets destroyed, and the message of His Truth does not go forward. If we insist on following our own selfish desires we don't just harm ourselves, we also harm others and the cause of Christ. Paul told them:

1. You must stop telling lies. Be truthful!
2. Don't hold a grudge. Let your anger go! If you hold onto anger (which is an elevation of self) you are opening yourself up to the one who is against God.
3. You must stop stealing. Start working for a honest living. Share what you have honestly worked for with others.
4. Don't say harmful things. Your words should bring encouragement to others—not harm.
5. Do not make the Holy Spirit grieve. Follow His ways.  
6. Do not be bitter, or angry, or mad.
7. Never shout angrily or say anything to hurt others.
8. Never do anything that God calls evil.

Instead, "Be kind and loving to each other, and forgive each other just as God forgave you in Christ." (Ephesians 4:32) Keep the bond of peace. If you are a child of the light then live like it! Ephesians 5:8–9 - "...live like children who belong to the light.  Light brings every kind of goodness, right living, and truth." Be careful how you live. Ephesians 5:5 - "Anyone who is greedy is serving a false God." So, live wisely. Do good. Be filled with the Spirit. Ephesians 5:19–20 - "Speak to each other with psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, singing and making music in your hearts to the Lord. Always give thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ."


Next Entry: Ephesians 6:1–24