Ephesians: Tear Down These WallsChikamu

Have you ever totally misjudged the weather and worn clothing that was unsuitable for the conditions?

I remember camping in the Warrumbungle National Park in Central NSW on what I thought was going to be a warm sunny day. I put on shorts, a t-shirt, and my Birkenstocks and we got in the car to travel up to Siding Springs Observatory, which is situated on the highest point of the Warrumbungle Range.

The Observatory is one of the best places in Australia to view the stars, and has incredible views over the volcanic range and the valley below. However, when we arrived at the top, I realised that what I was wearing was completely wrong for the conditions.

There was a strong bitter wind blowing across the top of the mountain, and I was freezing! I wish I'd worn jeans, a jacket, and boots.

In a similar way, Paul views our new life in Christ as requiring a new wardrobe that suits our new situation. Now that we have been made alive in Christ and adopted as God's children, we are to "walk worthy of our calling" (4:1). Our new life in Christ requires a change of wardrobe.

Paul tells us to put off our old way of life (lying, unhealthy talk, stealing, anger, bitterness)—like I might have taken off my Birkenstocks which were completed unsuitable for the cold conditions—because it doesn't suit our new position in Christ.

In place of the old life, we put on a new life (truthfulness, words that build up, diligent work, kindness, compassion, forgiveness) like a new wardrobe that's suits our identity in Christ.

I'm struck by the prominence of our words in Paul's instructions. 

Our words have a significant impact on our relationships and influence. James reminds us that though the tongue is small, it can create significant damage just like a tiny spark can burn down an entire forest (James 3:3–6).

We're reminded here of course of the importance of God's work of renewal in changing us (4:23), for no one can tame the tongue (James 3:7–8). But each of us also has a vital part to play in our transformation as we put off negative talk and put on positive talk—like a change of wardrobe.

How can you use your words today to build up, instead of tearing down? To speak truth and kindness to those you encounter?