15 Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church. Guys this is just so powerful! We should be growing in every way more and more like Christ...that's deep and it pretty much sums up what this chapter talks about. When we truly are followers of Christ, we let go of our sinful nature and take a hold of Christ...becoming more and more like him! Let us live our lives as our wonderful savior did, he came and died so that we can pick up our cross and follow him and become more and more like him!
Verses 22-24:
ReplyDeleteYou were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.
I love how this verse points out that knowing Christ should change our attitudes. If we truly know Christ, then not only will our actions change, but so will our hearts. I wish I could say that I've done this, but I find myself slipping into old habits. I am grateful though that it is a process (as Tito's verse states). I love all of y'all and cannot wait to read your comments.
Oh man. I had the hardest time trying to chose between like 6 or seven verses, but I this one really stood out to me.
ReplyDelete29- Do not let any unwholesome talk come our of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.
I wish our entire brotherhood would listen to this verse. Especially after elections and having new associates. So many times we say things that tear our brothers down to make another appeal more to a certain position instead of lifting the preferred brother up and in turn lifting up the name of God. Also, I find that what we say to or around our associates does not glorify our Lord and this verse specifically states that we should not say anything if it does not benefit those who listen. Trust me, the associates listen more than we think. It is important to, not only around associates, but always think about what we say and ask if what we are saying will glorify Christ.
Ephesians 1:1
ReplyDeleteI urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called.
---
We have been called to such a high standard. We have been called to take up our cross and die daily. We have been called to put God's will first above all things. That means putting his glory above your own. That means living lives in which every single moment is spent in a way which is edifying to the lord. Live in a manner worthy of the great gift that the Lord has given to you.
verse 31:
ReplyDeleteGet rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
--
Such a simple, straightforward command proves to be one of the most difficult to follow. I hardly go a day without being frustrated at something, or at least having one negative emotion, however briefly it lasts. To think that the process of growing close to God can be summed up in two sentences is astounding. It is hard not to feel instantly better when we remember that God has given us eternal life, though we deserved worse than death. To do so his love and mercy must be never-ending.
Always be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other's faults because of your love.
ReplyDeleteI have a huge temper. It's bad. It takes alot for me to get there, but once I do I'm pissed. It's something that I have been working on, but is also a part of my personality. I am not advocating it at all, it is something I need to work on and God really spoke to me about it.