Exploring Thriving Through EphesiansSample

Paul continues to explain that because we are dearly loved children in God's family, we should use the example of our brother, Jesus, to learn to love well.

Loving well like Jesus is our goal. And Paul gives us a lot of examples of what it looks like in our daily relationships. I'm going to seek to be sexually upright, to steward of the gift of sexuality that I've been given in ways that honor the people around me, not using others for self-gratification. I'm going to live purely and sacrificially, not greedy for more and more. And I'm especially going to realize the impact that words have. I want my words to reflect Jesus' love.

Paul recognizes that the days and times that we live in are evil. We must also be aware and sober-minded about that. He draws a visual comparison between being controlled by the Spirit or being controlled by alcohol. Nothing but the Spirit should control me.

And as my mind is renewed, and my actions are following, thankfulness will fill my heart and overflow out my mouth in songs to the Father.

What a beautiful picture.

What are ways that you see the love of Jesus reflected out of you towards others? How are you growing in this?

What are the areas that yet need to be brought under the control of the Spirit?

Spend some time in thankfulness to the Father today.