260 in 2012 DEVOS - Day 172 - Ephesians 4: _nity – Top Priority

You guessed it – it’s not unity without “U”! It’s transition time. The first 3 chapters lay down some truths and beginning in chapter 4 Paul says, “I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received.” The truths of God have always been meant to be lived out, to be applied. Paul had already told the Corinthians that “Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up” and we see that same truth being taught here in regards to how we treat one another. I see four principles from the first 16 verses: 1) Unity depends on love that comes from character. We are to be “completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.” 2) Unity begins with unity with God. Seven times in 3-6 the word “one” is used in relation to the Lord. 3) Unity brings diversity of gifts – just “as Christ apportioned it.” Apostles, Prophets, Evangelists, Pastors, Teachers – all differ, but one purpose: “to prepare God's people for works of service…” 4) Unity demands maturity in our growth. If we are gonna’ have the same goals as believers, we need to understand Bible truths more & more. Paul finishes the chapter with a contrast of the old life & new life. The old life involved falsehood, deceitful desires, anger, stealing, unwholesome talk, etc… But “In Christ” we are to speak truthfully, not deceive or steal, etc… Much of this happens by watching what we say: “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.” Don’t be angry, bitter, etc… with others, that saddens God. Instead, “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” SO WHAT?! *Do you get along with fellow believers? Or do you resent them? Hey, let’s remember, we’re on the same team – the body of Christ – and the enemy would love to get us at each other and keep our focus off Jesus! Let’s ask forgiveness for acting selfish in the body and that God would give us a spirit of love for each other. *How are you involved in “works of service that God has for you? In what ways are you helping prepare others to serve God? Both are necessary and commanded. Lord help us be passionate about the things YOU are passionate about! *A lot of conflict could be avoided if we would just obey verses 29 & 32! My mom used to always say to me, “If you can’t say anything nice, don’t say anything at all.” Ha – she was paraphrasing verse 29! I believe that the more we do this, the more unified we will be! *So how do we change? Well, according to vs 22, it’s a killer! Die to the old ways, BUT be resurrected to new living – and it starts in our minds!!!