As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Ephesians 4:1 NIV
Paul writes these words while confined for spreading the gospel message. This portion of his letter to the church at Ephesus informs them of his confinement. In addition, it encourages unity in the body of believers there. While Paul is under arrest in Rome, he delivers a message to the church to live lives worthy of the calling of those saved by the grace of God. No matter what talent or gift we possess, together we share the good news of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ.
Moreover, to live lives worthy of the calling, Jesus commands that each of us love one another. The Lord says in John 13:34, “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, just like I have loved you; that you also love one another. WEB” Regardless of the level of our talent or ability, Christ calls the faithful to serve God and one another in love. This means active, sacrificial service and mutual support.
Unity in Christ
The unity of those in Christ is essential for the proper functioning of the church. In the body of Christ, each member supports one another just as the various parts of our own bodies work together to the benefit of the entire body. It is important that we care for one another. As Jesus says of those who receive eternal life in Matthew 25:35-36, “for I was hungry and you gave me food to eat, thirsty and you gave me drink. I was a stranger and you took me in, naked and you clothed me, sick and you visited me. I was in prison and you came to me. WEB”
From his place in prison, Paul continued to direct the church. He encourages the faithful to humbly and gently work together in love. Even in the face of great persecution, Paul instructs his brothers and sisters of faith to maintain peace among themselves. As he says, they are to “live lives worthy of the calling.” The calling is to live like Christ. This means we live peaceable lives of loving service, demonstrating devotion to God and love for our fellow man.
Prayer: “Father God, thank you for the guidance of your holy word. Thank you for the support of my brothers and sisters of faith. Guide my steps to live a life that honors the grace you freely gave me. Give me wisdom to effectively use the gifts you have given me to serve your purpose. In Jesus’ name – Amen”
Yesterday’s Devotional: The Resurrection
