Daily Bible Reading—January 2025, God’s Strengthening Word: Celebrating Unity in Christ JesusSample

Introduction

Ephesians 4:17–32: Paul contrasts human behavior before knowing Christ with behavior that reflects God’s love and grace. He instructs followers of Christ to get rid of the “old self” (verse 22) and to “put on the new self” (verse 24) that demonstrates a life that is upright and holy.

Today’s Key Verse: Ephesians 4:32

Be kind and tender-hearted to one another, and forgive one another, as God has forgiven you through Christ.

Reflect

Paul offers practical instructions for behaving as Christians. How does he describe the new life in Christ? He urges us to “get rid of all bitterness, passion, and anger” and to put aside “hateful feelings” (verse 31). Do you struggle with any of these feelings? If so, what behavioral changes do you need to make to overcome them? What advice does Paul offer (verse 32)?

Pray

Lord Jesus, help me to grow day by day in the knowledge of you and to live a new life in you. Help me to overcome actions and habits that are not pleasing in your sight and to put on a “new self” that reflects your likeness and that is upright and holy. Amen.

Tomorrow’s Reading

Ephesians 5:1–20: Paul describes what it means to live as children of God.