Reading your Bible for today July 5

August 5: Ephesians 4:1-6

KJV Key Verse: Ephesians 4:2
2 With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love;

Devotion:
These words may well have been written to the people in Ephesus, but they are true for every person who is not a Jew. This was just one of the ports of call of the apostle as he went around trying to tell more and more people about Christ and all He had accomplished. Paul knew God had called him to go out and tell people the gospel and this is why he calls himself a prisoner; not because he is trapped and cannot get out but because this is now where he will spend the rest of his life – in God’s service!

Every day was treated as a new opportunity to tell people about Christ. Every day was taken as a gift from God and used well. How often do we get up and think “I just can’t be bothered!” But for Paul it was a calling which encompassed every part of his life from now on. And what was he to do? The same as the scriptures would tell us: to act justly, love mercy and walk humbly with God. (Micah 6:8)

Each of us need to make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. If we are willing to forgive others as Christ forgives us, then we are on the first step toward achieving this. As we continue to accept that people are different and we make up a world full of people who are different, then we can live together in peace. Why uphold our own pride and greed when we can have so much more through peace? Why continue trying to blame others instead of trying to show people a way forward together?

We are much stronger when we work together with others. We are much more able to get things done working as a team rather than going it alone. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Don’t be so full of pride you cannot step forward and say you need help! God wants us to live together with Him and for Him, so let us step up and take on the mantle of being servants for God working with each other to glorify our awesome God!

Points to Ponder:
How often do you blame others?

Would you be willing to stop and help someone today?