…find out what pleases the Lord.(Ephesians 5:10) There’s a big difference between desire and love. Desire is about you—your wants, your needs, and how the object of your desire can fulfill them. Even the term, “Object of your desire,” sounds … Continue reading
For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light… (Ephesians 5:8) Our culture has a thing for darkness. It’s in our entertainment, our conversation, our politics–what was once whispered about in … Continue reading
For of this you can be sure: no immoral, impure, or greedy person–such a man is an idolater–has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. Let no one deceive you, for because of such things God’s wrath … Continue reading
But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God’s holy people. Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk, or coarse joking, … Continue reading
Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children, and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. (Ephesians 5:2) This verse goes along … Continue reading
Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children… (Ephesians 5:1). Have you ever watched a son watch his father? The boy studies the man, soaking up the Dadness of it all. Words, clothing, even mannerisms—the child models what he … Continue reading
Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you (Eph. 4:32). There’s an interesting thing about forgiveness. It works for the forgiver as powerfully as for the forgivee. Some of us—and by … Continue reading
And do not grieve the Holy Spirit, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice (Ephesians 4:30-31). Hmm…two pretty important things … Continue reading
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 (Ephesians 4:29). Beloved, you are in command of one … Continue reading
Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands,that they may have something to share with those in need (Eph. 4:28). There is deep, complex theological meaning in this text … Continue reading