February 25 Walk in Unity Ephesians 4:1-6
Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “I, therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you to walk worthy of the calling with which you were called, 2 with all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love, 3 endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. 4 There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called in one hope of your calling; 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism; 6 one God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.” (Ephesians 4:1-6)
These beautiful verses, found in Paul’s letter to the Ephesian Church, reminds us of the qualities that are essential for maintaining unity within the body of Christ, the church. Using words like humility, gentleness, patience, love, and peace, Paul emphasized the importance of these virtues in fostering harmonious and unified relationships among believers. We not only demonstrate our commitment to following the teachings of Christ, and being “Christ-Like,” but also create an environment where respect and understanding can flourish by embracing these qualities. Have you ever reflected on how humility can help us overcome pride and ego, allowing us to appreciate the contributions of others? Or have you ever considered how practicing gentleness and patience can lead to smoother and more edifying interactions with other believers, and prevent conflicts from escalating or even existing at all? When we approach our relationships with love, motivated by His Will, and seek peace in our interactions, that glorify God and not ourselves, we are actively building bridges and creating a sense of connection within the body of Christ. Imagine a church community where each member strives to live out these virtues, where misunderstandings are resolved through patience, conflicts are approached with gentleness, and love is the guiding principle in all interactions. These verses call us to be intentional in our actions, to actively cultivate a spirit of unity by embracing and living humility, gentleness, patience, love, and peace in our relationships with one another. We can reflect on how to incorporate these virtues into our daily lives, nurturing a sense of unity and harmony within the body of Christ. For the Believer, this is NOT AN OPTION! We are called to be “Christ-Like” in all of our doings! The conflicts and the strife within the Body of Christ (Church) should not exist, however, the solution is Christian Maturity, growing in His Grace and becoming a person of focus, gentleness, selfless behaviors, and a willingness to embrace others and to be patient in their journey into maturity! How are you living? Are you allowing Ego and Pride to dictate your attitude and behavior? Christian maturity requires surrender, submission and service to our God! Your opinions, prejudices, and actions must reflect the divine touch of the Savior of the World, Jesus Christ! I can tell when someone is immature in faith by their actions and reactions to the ongoing challenges of life! When we “Walk in Unity with Him, we can Walk in Unity with each other!” It is entirely up to you! Stay Strong, Stay Focused … THE BEST IS YET TO BE!
FACT: When we come to Jesus, in Faith, Believing that He is the Savior, confessing our sinfulness, and asking Him to Save us, and to Cleanse us, and to enter our hearts, then there IS going to be a CHANGE! Please do not let your attitude, harmful words, actions and opinions cause others to stumble and fall, all for the idea that you are right. If your actions do not bring people closer to God, then your actions ARE NOT PROPER and EDIFYING to OUR SAVIOR, and you need a Renewal, Refocusing, and some Bent Knee Confession!