Ephesians 6:21-24 "No Man is an Island"

"Tychicus, the dear brother and faithful servant in the Lord, will tell you everything, so that you also may know how I am and what I am doing. I am sending him to you for this very purpose, that you may know how we are, and that he may encourage you.

"Peace to the brothers, and love with faith from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Grace to all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with an undying love." NIV

As Paul closes this letter to the church at Ephesus, he reminds us of the power of the body working together. According to the NIV study notes, Tychicus was "an associate of Paul who traveled as his representative." Even while sitting in prison, Paul not only writes to the churches to encourage and instruct them, he sends someone in his place to be skin on for them. These churches were out there, alone and persecuted. They were like us in that they believed in a Savior that they had never seen with their eyes. All they knew was through the apostles' testimonies and the Holy Spirit's revelation. The church was young. Only alittle over 50 years had passed since Jesus' ascension. They were babies struggling to pull themselves up to their feet and walk in this new way. Their steps were unsure and wobbly. They often fell or were distracted. So they needed someone to instruct and encourage them in seeing their way through this revolutionary idea of Christianity.

As believers we have to work together to accomplish the mission. We must encourage one another and hold each other accountable to living the life of the believer. It's tough out there. Between fighting against our sinful nature -- repeatedly putting it to death -- resisting temptation, keeping focused on the Truth and living it with integrity while putting food on the table and a roof over our heads, we have a difficult task before us. It's easy to get distracted. But we are not alone -- spiritually or physically. If we only had the power of the Holy Spirit to guide us, that would be enough. But God went one step further -- he gave us help with skin on -- our fellow believers.

Thirteen years ago when we moved to Sacramento from the Midwest, the Lord laid on my heart that I needed an accountability partner. My husband and I hold each other accountable, but I needed someone outside of the marital relationship which involves so many other facets. I needed someone whose relationship with me was to be a spiritual support. I was so blessed when the Lord directed me to Laurie. We're about the same age (although she always reminds me I'm older) and have similar life experiences and spiritual maturity level. We have been meeting pretty much every week for 13 years to study the Word together, pray for each other, ask the tough questions, and pretty much share our lives with one another. We have had a relationship that has grown me up in my spiritual walk like I never grew before. And it never seems to fail that when I am struggling, she is able to hold me up and when she's struggling, I'm in the good place to be her anchor. We've shared almost a third of our lives together through raising children, career changes, family crises, and many joys. We laugh and cry together and have an authentic relationship that is open and honest. We keep each other's feet to the fire which can be a humbling experience. It's tough to walk the Christian life, and we have vowed to live a life of no compromise. So we each make sure the other one is walking the walk. I'm so blessed to have my dear best friend who knows me inside and out. I wouldn't trade her for the world, and "I thank my God every time I remember" her.

If you don't have someone to hold you accountable, ask the Lord to lead you to that person. You don't have to do this alone. We are the body of Christ, but we are not invincible. We need each other. Your strengths will help me and my strengths will help you. Let's work together to accomplish the mission to which we have been called. The eternal addresses of our friends, neighbors and colleagues are at stake.

Further Thoughts:

1. How many "pairs" of workers can you name from the Old Testament? What were some very specific ways they helped each other? (i.e. Moses and Aaron)
2. How did Jesus send out the disciples when they traveled to share Jesus' message? (See Luke 10:1)
3. How is the body of Christ to work? Look back at Ephesians 4:11-16, Romans 12:3-5, and 1 Corinthians 12:12-31)
4. If you do not have an accountability partner, I encourage you to pray for the Lord to direct you to one.

Ephesians 6:19-20 "Living Fearlessly"

"Pray also for me, that whenever I open my mouth, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should." NIV

I think two of the greatest enemies we battle against every day are fear and selfishness. They are the Siamese heads of a monster that want to stop us dead in our tracks as followers of Jesus Christ. They loom at every turn we take, and boy, are they good at what they do. They are waiting for us when we wake whispering thoughts of sloth. They follow us to work and to school, hovering with lies of doubt but at the same time pushing for more power and authority over others. Looking for praise and promotion, but living afraid to be who I really need to be. Will I be accepted? Will I be made a fool? They follow me home and push against the relationships in my own house -- battling for control and self-satisfaction. Then when I lock my doors at night and lay my head on the pillow in the dark, they want to rewind the day with doubt and second guessing. Fear that I over did it, and fear that I didn't do enough. Replayed conversations bounce around our heads robbing us of true rest.

In spite of all that Paul did, he was still human enough to have moments of fear and selfishness. And here we see him asking for prayer to live and share the gospel fearlessly. Pretty ironic for a man that couldn't be stopped from speaking. They threw him in prison, he shares with the prisoners and guards. They threaten to kill him, he welcomes the death that will allow him to go be with his Lord. They let him go, and he goes right out to preach again. Paul was unstoppable. But it was because he was sold out for Jesus Christ. He knew he'd face temptations of fear, but he also knew where the strength and power to overcome it came from. "The prayers of a righteous man availeth much." If we only ask, the power of the Holy Spirit can decapitate that two-headed monster that wants to defeat us and ruin our effectiveness for Christ.

Lord, I desire like Paul to stand firm in my faith, to walk boldly in the world. "Whenever I open my mouth..." -- fearless.

Further Thoughts:

1. David battled fear in his adult life. Read some of the Psalms. What did David do with that fear?
2. Compare and contrast "boldness" and "arrogance." Find Scripture on each one.
3. Did Jesus battle against fear or doubt? If so, how did he fight it? (Read Matthew 26:36-44.)
4. Using a concordance, find some supportive Scripture to claim against fear. Also look up the word, "afraid." (One online concordance is at crosswalk.com.
5. Is fear and doubt trying to overtake you? Pray for boldness through the power of the Holy Spirit. Then walk fearlessly.

Ephesians 6:18b "Eyes Up"

"With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints." NIV

I was ready to move on to verses 19-20 when I was stopped short by the words "be alert" in verse 18. They grabbed me and wouldn't let me go like a fly caught in a web. Evidently, I need to learn something from these two little words that I am just not getting. We use these words so often, or at least we use their modern cousins, "watch out." Kids are crossing the street, "Watch out for traffic." Carrying a hot pan of grease to the sink in a crowded kitchen, "Watch out, coming through." In the business world we "watch out" for the competitor and their latest gadget. In politics, they "watch out" for a turn in the polls. But am I living my life truly on alert? And what am I watching out for? Paul is meaning an alertness for something much more important than my physical well-being, protection, or the ability to make another buck. He is calling us to a spiritual alertness for the enemy's attacks.

When I read the verse today, I immediately thought of Gideon. He had all those soldiers and God told him to pare them down by having them drink water from the river. The ones who lapped like a dog he was to send home, and the ones who scooped up the water with their hand, he was to keep. Why? Because the ones using their hands could keep their heads and eyes up to see who was around them. They were on alert.

How often am I living my days with my head down lapping away at the water? I'm so focused on my own satisfaction that I'm not watching what's going on around me. I may be missing out on some really good things -- like rejoicing with someone who has had something really good happen to them. Or I might miss an opportunity to help someone in need. However, here, I believe Paul is speaking more to the attacks of the enemy -- having a spiritual alertness to his working against me and the body of believers.

A soldier must remain alert to the enemy's attacks. We can't just keep busy with tending to our tents, cleaning our armor, or sharpening our tools. We have to be ready. I know we must give our attention to daily life -- we have to do our jobs to have money to eat and live. We need to keep ourselves healthy with clean homes and clothes, and good food. Those are necessities of humanity. But am I so focused on the mundane that I'm becoming sluggish and complacent? Are my robotic activities lulling me into a drowsiness that allows the enemy a breach in our ranks?

I must lift up my head and be alert. I truly believe we can do this. I can live my life in a state of readiness for anything if I only keep communicating with my Father. I have to stop more often throughout my day and listen. I must purposefully point my thoughts and focus to the spiritual realm even while trudging through the tasks of living. We are called to a higher purpose than being pulled down into the routine of emptiness that society can sometimes build for us. I will not be mastered by the temporary when I have the eternal to live for. I will not be blindsided by the enemy because I am chained to the to do list of life. Therefore, I will remain alert to the enemy's attacks by keeping my eyes focused on the Father.

Holy Spirit, help me to keep my head up and remain on alert. Make me aware of the attacks coming my way and lead me to safety. I want my life to be pleasing to You. Guide me in my choices and focus me on Your will and plan for my day, every day. I want to hear Your voice over the din. I want to see Your face through the chaos. I want Your plan to be my agenda. I know if I keep my focus on You, I will know instantly when the enemy is attacking. Lord, Your soldier is ready to serve.

Further Thoughts:

1. Read through the story of Gideon. He was a man listening for God's direction every step of the way. Judges 6:1 - 7:25.
2. Look up the Greek for the word "alert." Are you living your life that focused on God and that alert to the enemy? If not, why? What habits, activities, attitudes, or commitments in your life need to change to become alert?
3. How are prayer and "being alert" related?

Ephesians 6:18 "The Commander's Voice"

"And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints." NIV

Paul wraps up this passage on putting on the Armor of God with "And pray." It's not a "possibly pray" or "maybe pray." He says, "And pray." Donning all that protection, no matter how powerful it is, will be ineffective if we do not keep the communication lines open between us and the Master. The supreme commander of the army needs to speak to His troops and His troops must communicate with Him -- at all times in many different ways. I would love to sit down with Paul and hear about his "all kinds of prayers." I don't see him discussing in his other books about different kinds of prayers. But in any case, prayer is less a method and more an attitude.

If I come before my God dressed in the armor and power He has made available to me as His child and soldier of the gospel, ready to face the fiery darts of the enemy, armed with the power of His Word, I'd better come in humility. As I walk through my day, I'm facing an enemy and his temptations that I have no power to face on my own. I face dangers that could take my life. (Well, have you been on a California highway lately?) I must make regular decisions that could change the direction of my life. I cannot imagine going through each day without my Lord's guidance. Do I listen perfectly? Sadly, no. My ears often become clouded with the clamor, chaos, distractions, fear and selfishness of my human nature. But in my continual efforts to please my Lord, to put off the old self and wear the new, to live a life pleasing to the Master, I strive to listen closer for His voice. And the more time I spend with Him, in prayer and meditation on His Word, the clearer the resonance of His voice becomes.

When our oldest daughter, Lauren, was born, practically the entire family was at the hospital. They were all outside the nursery window as she was screaming through her first bath. Even drying her off and bundling her up didn't calm her down. But so the family could take better pictures, the nurse kindly opened the door and held our screaming baby up for all to see. Of course, I wasn't there, but my husband was videotaping the whole event. On the tape you can hear all the family talking to Lauren, welcoming her to the world, and she is loudly voicing her complaints. Then, her daddy speaks. "Lauren, it's your daddy." She instantly quiets. In the midst of the dozen voices coming at her, as well as her own screams in her ears, she recognizes her daddy's voice.

Oh, how I want to be able, in every situation, to tune out the chaos and clamor and hear my Daddy's voice. When I'm working under a ridiculous deadline; when I'm in the middle of swearing, angry parents at my daughter's softball game; when I'm racing through the crowded mall; when I'm sitting on an airplane; when I'm facing criticism; when I'm disciplining my child; when I'm tired and alone or when I'm ecstatically happy. "On all occasions," I want to hear what my Father is saying to me. I can't do any of this alone - armored or not. I desperately need His voice.

Lord, open my ears to Your voice and Yours alone. I cannot do any of this without You. Whatever Your will, I am listening.

Further Thoughts:

1. If you don't know how to pray, beginning with how Jesus taught the disciples to pray. Read Matthew 6:9-13.
2. Outline Jesus' prayer in Matthew 6. What are the basic points He covers in His prayer?
3. Read through some of Jesus' prayers. (i.e. Luke 22:39-44, John 17:1-26)
4. How are prayer and humility connected? (Read 2 Chronicles 7:14; Matthew 6:5-8. Find other examples in Scripture.)
5. Set your phone or calendar to remind you to pray. (At the link, see Further Thoughts, #4)
6. For parents, take time each morning to pantomime with your children putting on their armor. Here's how we did it when the kids were little, "The helmet of salvation, the breastplate of righteousness, the belt of truth, our feet ready to spread the gospel and peace, the shield of faith and the sword of the Spirit." Then the kids said, "Are we dressed yet?" and we all said, "Yes." Then they said, "What are we going to do for God today?" And we all listed what we were doing that day -- school, work, playing with friends.... And we had prayer. It's a good way to start your day, too.
7. Pray

Ephesians 6:17b "Sword Fight!"

"...and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God." NIV

Now here is where my armor goes on the offense. In fact, this is the only non-defensive piece that He gives us -- His Word. We have a force so powerful right in our hands, and it's a book. It makes me smile. How many people hate to read. Instead they'd rather be working out, playing video games, watching movies, partying, playing sports, building their career. If they'd only read and listen, they'd have the greatest weapon available.

The Word of God can bring down men or build them up. It can defeat nations and heal diseases. The Word of God brought the world into being and will bring it to an end. The enemy cannot stand in it's way; it plows right through him. Nothing can defeat me when I am using the sword of the Spirit. My sword (my tongue) can destroy me, but the sword of the Spirit will give me victory over anything the enemy throws my way. He is a defeated foe.

The Word has already been spoken and the outcome of the war determined. Now I just need to take up my sword to fight the little battles until my Lord comes again. That's why I study His Word and listen for how the Spirit clarifies it to me. That's why I hide His words in my heart -- to be ready for the daily battles. And they will come. The end of the book has been written, but I'm in the middle of the pages fighting away. I don't want to be left weaponless.

Thank You, Lord, for Your sword that fights the battles for me. Your Word is my strength. I cannot stand with anything less.

Further Thoughts:

1. How did Jesus use the Word of God to defeat Satan? Read Matthew 4:1-11.
2. In Scripture, what comparisons are made between the tongue and a sword? (See Psalm 64:2-4 and Proverbs 12:18)
3. Compare and contrast the Greek "word" in this passage with "Word" in John 1:1. Why must we meditate on God's Word to effectively use the sword of the Spirit? (HINT: personal revelation vs universal command)
4. Read Hebrews 4:12 then take up the Sword of the Spirit and go.

Ephesians 6:17a "Truly Living in Hope"

"Take the helmet of salvation...." NIV

I can't read this verse without thinking about a really bad hair day. But that's irrelevant.;-)

This one is hard to write about. Everything I would put makes me want to say, "Duh!" It just all seems so obvious to guard our minds, the center of our will, our thoughts and the very essence of who we are with our salvation. His grace and mercy, the cleansing of my sins, the hope of eternity with Him is what will protect me. I need to be sure it's securely in place as the enemy will try to attack those areas of my life -- probably mostly with doubt. It's when doubt creeps into our thinking that our shield of faith begins to waver, the belt of truth becomes subjective, and peace is replaced by confusion.

But when I have the protection of salvation surrounding my every thought, desire, development of who I am, then my thinking and will line up with my Father's plan. I see with His eyes; I hear with His ears. His desires are my desires. And my hope of coming out of all of this in victory with Him is sure.

Father, thank you for the protection of my salvation. Help me to keep my thoughts and will in line with Yours. I want the very heart of who I am to consistently be in tune to You.

Further Thoughts:

1. How am I guarding my mind from the enemy's attacks? Am I careful about what I see and hear? Am I keeping the hope of my salvation always before me as the most important part of my life? Answer, then read 1 Peter 1:13-16.
2. What do I need to change in my lifestyle to stay away from the dangers that will attack my mind? (What needs to be taken away; what needs to be added?)
3. Do I live as a true believer in the hope of my salvation? In other words, do I live my life as a soldier who has the Almighty as the commanding officer? Am I walking boldly and sure? If not, why? What lie is the enemy feeding me that I'm believing?
4. Read Matthew 21:18-22 and James 1:6. Why is doubting counterproductive to the Christian life?

Ephesians 6:16 "By Faith"

"In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one." NIV

Imagine the Roman shields of this time. They were about 4 feet tall and a couple feet wide so they basically covered all the vital parts of a soldier. They were metal, and I understand they were sometimes covered in animal skin and then soaked in water or rubbed with alum. Why? To extinguish the fiery arrows! Isn't that a cool image?

Our faith is a complete surrender and trust in the Almighty God. We believe by faith that Jesus is the Son of God. We believe by faith that we have been cleansed of our sin and have the hope of eternal life with Christ. We believe by faith that the Holy Spirit lives in us giving counsel to walk through each day pleasing to Him. And if we stand behind that faith, we are protected from the enemy's attacks. We become impenetrable.

Notice, we can't stop the attacks from happening. The enemy is not giving up. But we can forge through them. Our faith is our protection. That's why we must continue to stand strong and sure in His armor. And even if our arm is tired, we keep that shield of faith firmly anchored in front of our body.

Knowing that just makes my life so much easier. The enemy can't touch me. Do I still face troubles? Absolutely - they come with the territory. But, the key is that those trials never defeat me. I may get wounded temporarily, but I will still stand for my Lord and Master. I serve a purpose that is higher than illness, disappointment, or broken down cars. My calling is above lost jobs, wars, frustrations, and financial failures. It's even higher than rising gas prices. I serve a greater purpose than these earthly obstacles can stop. My vision is wide and high because it is set on the Almighty, and I will hold my shield of faith firmly in front of me at all cost.

Further Thoughts:

1. Want to know you are not the only one? Read Hebrews 11. Men and women of faith have come before us with troubles much greater than ours. And they were able to stand.
2. Using a concordance, take some time looking through verses with "faith," "faithful," faithfulness," faithfully." There are hundreds. What ones give you strength and encouragement? Write them down and memorize them.
3. Has your faith been wavering lately? Why? Where is the enemy attacking? Reaffirm what you believe. Say it out loud. Then stand firmly behind the shield of protection God has given you.

Ephesians 6:15 "Peace Shoes"

"...and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace." NIV

As I read through commentaries and study notes on this verse, there are so many analogies to pull from it. First is the fact that we are putting something on our feet. The Roman soldier's feet were often covered in brass to avoid galltraps (three pronged metal pieces) and sharp sticks placed in their path. Likewise, the enemy is going to place obstacles in our way. He will try to trip us up at every angle that he can. But if we have our feet firmly covered, we can avoid being put out of commission by the enemy's wiles. A soldier cannot march if his feet are injured and that is one less fighter in the battle.

So what do we cover our feet with? Readiness that can only come from the gospel of peace. Our readiness is strong and impenetrable. It is because of our salvation and the peace that comes from it that we can be made ready to face anything the enemy throws at us. We can march on to do that which we were called to do -- to share the gospel of peace that is our protection. Not only are we guarded by it, but we are made ready to share it with others in need. It is our foundation -- what we stand on -- that will keep us ready. Get your brass shoes on. We've got several obstacles to face today.

Further Thoughts:

1. Where else is sharing the gospel of peace associated with shoes/feet?
2. How does the gospel bring peace? Support with Scripture.
3. Are you at peace with God right now? If not, what stands in the way?
4. What "galltraps" has the enemy placed in your path lately? Did you handle them with peace?
5. List different ways you can prepare yourself to spread the gospel and peace.
   

Ephesians 6:14b "Guard Your Heart"

"...with the breastplate of righteousness in place...." NIV

After the belt of truth comes the breastplate of righteousness. The Greek word for righteousness is dikaiosune. It means the "state of him who is as he ought to be, ...the condition acceptable to God." So this is why righteousness is in our breastplate -- to cover our heart. It's the center of our desires and our values. It governs where we place our trust and loyalties. And we want to guard our heart to remain in a state that is pleasing to God. Interestingly, it's the state where we began - before the fall. A righteous person is living as God designed us to be. When He cleansed me from my sin at conversion, He made me again the person He planned for me to be. And if I will put on my armor, the breastplate will protect that purified condition. Again, however, I must choose daily to put on that breastplate. I must choose to stay away from the old self and protect the new.

Lord, thank You that you not only cleanse my heart from my sin and separation from You, but You provide the protection to guard my heart. I choose, today, to put on my breastplate and live in righteousness.

Further Thoughts:

1. God called Noah a righteous man. Reread his story and be reminded of what God can do with a person fully devoted to Him. Genesis 6:5-9:17.
2. Look at what Jesus had to say about righteousness in Matthew.
3. Are we a slave to sin or to righteousness? Read Romans 6, then Romans 8
4. Have you let the breastplate slip and tainted the righteousness that is yours through salvation? If so, confess it, stop doing it, and choose to guard your heart for God.

Ephesians 6:14a "To Tell the Truth"

"Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist...." NIV

Truth has become such a relative term today. It seems that society has suddenly given me the power to make truth anything I want it to be. And what you want it to be. And what my neighbor wants it to be. There doesn't seem to be an absolute truth anymore. And if I there is no absolute truth for our beliefs, then why do I need to live a truthful life if lies serve me better? And the rabbit hole gets deeper and deeper.

But there is an absolute truth. Jesus Christ is still truth even if nobody else believes in Him. Belief doesn't change the truth, only celebrates and affirms it in my life. And I will stand on that truth and living truthfully for as long as I can stand.

Okay, so I sound pretty passionate today, huh? My children know how I feel about truth-telling. They know it's much better to tell me the truth and suffer the consequences than to lie. If I found out they lied, the punishment will be oh so much worse. Our word is our integrity. If people can't trust what we say, how can they ever trust us. Why should they?

The belt being the symbol of truth is significant in a couple of ways. First, the belt is near the loins suggesting intimacy and importance in our lives. Our integrity is who we are. Secondly, for a soldier the belt was used to hold in the robes so they were ready for battle. If we are living a true life, we are ready to face the obstacles thrown at us.

So I choose truth with a "T" and a "t," and I will keep them very close to me. I will daily wrap it around me to hold in all that I am. It will bind my body with His truth to keep me on the straight and narrow.

Further Thoughts:

1. Where are we first told not to lie?
2. Where does Jesus say that He is the Truth?
3. How are truth-telling and integrity tied together? Support with Scripture.
4. Do we ask others to lie for us? What is that telling them about us?

Ephesians 6:10-13 "Semper Fidelis"

"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand." NIV

There is something about reading this passage that gets my blood pumping. Maybe I'm a closet soldier ready to don a gun and race to the battlefield. Maybe it's the words like "devil's schemes" and "spiritual forces" that remind me I'm part of something so much bigger than me that lies outside of the visual world. Whatever it is, I love this passage. When I am feeling attacked or just facing a daunting situation, I read this to remind me I am a soldier of Jesus Christ. Not only am I empowered by a mighty God, but I am part of an army of believers. I do not stand alone. And when I feel opposed, it's not man that is my enemy, but the evil powers at work in the world. I serve One who is more powerful. (I read the end of the book.;-) And nothing that I face today can do me in. I am a child of the Almighty and a proud member of the Lord's Army. Hooya!

Further Thoughts:

1. Using a concordance, look up the word "power." Read the passages listed and reflect on God's power. Thank Him that this same power you are reading about resides in you and battles on your behalf.
2. Walk tall today; you have an army on your side.

Ephesians 6:5-9 "A Servant's Heart"

"Slaves, obey your earthly masters with respect and fear, and with sincerity of heart, just as you would obey Christ. Obey them not only to win their favor when their eye is on you, but like slaves of Christ, doing the will of God from your heart. Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not men, because you know that the Lord will reward everyone for whatever good he does, whether he is slave or free.

"And masters, treat your slaves in the same way. Do not threaten them, since you know that he who is both their Master and yours is in heaven, and there is no favoritism with him." NIV

Okay, so this is a strange passage to discuss as an American -- we don't have slaves. But at that time, the Romans had millions of slaves. Christianity didn't abolish the slavery but it was there to teach how to live in the midst of it as followers of Christ -- for slaves and masters.

But what I can draw parallels to is the employer/employee, supervisor/volunteer, parent/child relationships. Anytime we we submit to an authority figure on a project or we are the authority, these principles can apply. In every job we have we should be serving the Lord, not men. I do my best in all things not for the pat on the back, but because I am a servant of the Most High and excellence is a standard, not an option. I want to always give all I have because I love Him, and He's the One who gave me my abilities in the first place. In the same way, if I am the one in charge, I want to be a gracious leader as my Lord demonstrated.

Lord, whichever position I am in, help me to be a gracious servant of You alone. Then everyone else around me will benefit.

Further Thoughts:

1. How did Jesus exemplify a servant's heart even as the Master? Give specific examples.
2. Examine how you serve others or how you have authority over others. Are there areas that you need to change to follow Christ's example better? List them and ask the Holy Spirit to remind you to make those changes.

Ephesians 6:1-4 "Parenting, the Hardest Job You'll Ever Do"

"Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. 'Honor your father and mother' -- which is the first commandment with a promise -- 'that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.'" NIV

This is a highly quoted verse -- gotta keep those kids in line. But, unfortunately, as a general rule, I don't see a lot of honoring going on in our society. Kids are so informed and world-wise that they at least can act like they don't need parents. Of course, part of it could be our fault of not giving them someone to honor -- as an absent parent or one who is not living an exemplary life. Are we being "honorable?"

What frustrates me more is when the other half of this passage is overlooked -- the parents' part -- not exasperating the children and training them in the way of the Lord. That's where many are falling short. I see many parents who demand respect from their children but don't give any back. They bark at them, order them around, but forget they are people with feelings, ideas, dreams, too. There is a fine line in maintaining as a parent that we are the authority figure and becoming an overbearing dictator. I hope I at least listen to my children and respect their opinions. And if I am remaining filled with the Spirit, I can live in a gentle attitude of caring and training, rather than bossing and rebuking. How I act as a parent is what is going to stick with my child for the rest of their life. And they will probably parent there children in the same way. So to put it in perspective, how do I want my grandchildren parented? With bullying and bossiness or respect and gentle instruction.

I know the legacy I want to leave my children. Lord, help me to live that out each day. I want to raise my children purposefully, not out of frustration or because of how their behavior reflects on me. Holy Spirit, guide my words, instruction, and attitude so my children see more of You and know the true way to live. Thank You for the privilege of discipling three amazing people to serve You.

Further Thoughts:

1. What does the Old Testament have to say on the raising of children? (Using a concordance, look up "child" and "children." Especially note verses in Proverbs and Deuteronomy.)
2. What value did Jesus put on children? Support with Scripture.
3. Do you react or respond to your children? Which way is more like Christ? (Support with examples from Christ's life.)
4. What part of our "old self" can get tied up in our parenting? What results from that?
5. What is the implied differences between an "authority" and a "boss?" Which is more productive and why?

Ephesians 5:22-33 "The Covenant of Marriage"

"Wives, submit to your husbands as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, his body, of which he is the Savior. Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit to their husbands in everything.

"Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word, and to present her to himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless. In this same way, husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. After all, no one ever hated his own body but he feeds and cares for it, just as Christ does the church -- for we are members of his body. 'For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.' This is a profound mystery -- but I am talking about Christ and the church. However, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband." NIV

I am profoundly saddened by the number of affairs and breakups going on in Christian marriages all around me. I can't tell you how many have happened just in the last year. And it begins with one or both of them consciously or unconsciously turning away from these commands God has clearly placed on the marriage relationship. And it's not all that hard to keep these promises -- submit and love. Be committed and do not turn away from that commitment. Period. No options, no plan B, no "if it works out." You make it work out! And if you have a "conciliatory attitude," you can make it work.

So where does it all begin to fall apart? How do we avoid that first pull away? Go back to the command in verse 18, "...be filled with the Spirit." If we are living in our new self and putting off the old self, if we are living to please God, if we are living "not as unwise but as wise," if we seek God's will daily and are filled with the Spirit, then we can build a relationship of love and submission that is lasting and reflects the love that Christ has for His church. That is one strong bond that no one can tear apart.

Further Thoughts:

1. Read Genesis 2:18-24 -- the first marriage. What was unique about Adam and Eve's marriage that is symbolic of the marriage covenant?
2. What is the correlation between the success of our marriage and our daily walk with the Lord?
3. Read Hosea 1-3. Here is the story of a marriage that symbolizes the love Christ has for His bride, the church. What can we learn from Hosea for our marriages? List the attributes of Hosea. For a contemporary novel based on Hosea, read Francine Rivers' book, Redeeming Love.
4. Read 1 Corinthians 13 again and spend time thanking the Lord for the spouse you have the privilege of loving and ask Him to help you to love even better.
5. Is your marriage hanging on by a thread? Humble yourself before the Lord, confess and ask forgiveness for your part of the problem, pray for your spouse, and be sure you stay right with the Lord every day. You can't control your spouse's spiritual walk, but you can control yours. Remain humbled before the Master and be filled with His Spirit. Love and submit to your spouse.

Ephesians 5:21 "You Want Me To Do What?!"

"Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ." NIV

That's it; that's all we're dealing with today. I am constantly amazed how one little 6-letter word can cause such animosity. Men and women do not like this word if it is applied to them. They love it when someone else is submitting to them, but not when they have to do the submitting. Why is that? Let's look at the fundamental reason we fight against submission and why God calls us to submit.

Walk through the logic with me. We don't want to submit because that is surrendering control. We don't want to surrender control because we want to be in charge of our own life. We want to be in charge of our own life because we are selfish and think everything should be our way. Wait, I've just walked back to my old self that I was wanting to put off in the first place.

Notice the progression that Paul uses here. It's best understood in the NIV study notes: "Submitting to one another. Basic to the following paragraphs. Paul will show how, in each relationship, each partner can have a conciliatory attitude that will help that relationship. The grammar indicates that this mutual submission is associated with the filling of the Spirit in v. 18. The command 'be filled' (v.18) is followed by a series of participles in the Greek: speaking (v.19), singing (v.19), making music (v.19), giving thanks (v.20) and submitting (v.21)."

We have been living in such a don't-let-anyone-walk-on-you society, that we have lost the art of submission. It really is not a bad thing. And as we see here, it is just one thing in the list that is part of being filled with His Spirit. I love how the study note calls it a "conciliatory attitude" that is for the benefit of our relationships. We work together to make the relationship work as it was designed to be. And if we are filled with the Spirit, and want to imitate God, and desire to live in the new self, not the old, we will act with a heart of praise, thanksgiving, and submission.

Lord, in reverence for You, help me to submit to others today. I want to maintain a right relationship with the people around me.

Further Thoughts:

1. Do a study of the Greek word for submit/subject used in Ephesians 5:21. After you go to the link, notice everything I put in the spaces to get to this page. Now click on the word "subject" in the verse. It will take you to the Greek definition. On the right-hand side are other verses using this same word. Click on those and read through where else in the Bible this word is used.
2. If you struggle with submission, ask God to reveal to you why you have this problem. Do these reasons line up with God's way to live (the new self) or the enemy's (the old self)? Ask His Spirit to guide you to make the right choices in your relationships.

Ephesians 5:18-20 "The Power of His Spirit"

"Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit. Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ." NIV

In this passage following the lesson on living wisely and understanding the Lord's will, Paul contrasts drunkenness with being filled with the Spirit. Obviously, it is making a choice as to what or whom we will be under the influence -- an over-abundance of alcohol or the Spirit of God. Hmmm, when you put it that way, this should be a no-brainer. Think about it, smashed out of my brain to the point I don't remember where I live, or filled with the Spirit of the Almighty Creator of the universe. Now Paul is using drunkenness as an example here; he could have used anything from the previous list of things to avoid, and filling our lives with any one of them would be in direct contrast to being filled with the Spirit.

When we receive Christ as our Savior, His Spirit comes to live within us. So what does being filled with the Spirit of God again do? According to the NIV study notes, the Greek present tense verb used here does not imply a one-time action. Being filled is an on-going process as the need arises. And the following verses, 19-20, would be some of the times we need empowered with more of the Spirit - to witness and worship. And that's where it is defined -- an empowering by God. We saw it in Acts 2:1-4 where the believers received the Holy Spirit and were "empowered" to speak in other languages that they had never learned before so they could share the truth of Jesus Christ. There were people gathered in Jerusalem from different nations and language groups for Pentecost. After the pouring out of God's Spirit, the believers were able to communicate with the foreign visitors the gift of salvation.

I may not walk up to a Frenchman today and suddenly be able to speak in French (unless the Holy Spirit wants to give that to me) but I do experience His power all the time in various ways. I can't imagine living without Him and His power enabling me to complete the calling God has placed on my life. I need His strength from simple tasks to complex ones; and He always provides when I ask. We serve a faithful God with a generous Spirit. He gives us of Himself over and over again if we will only ask, receive, and be thankful. Walk in His will, and He will provide the resources and power you need. He's promised.

Further Thoughts:

1. Where is the outpouring of the Holy Spirit prophesied in the Old Testament? (IF YOU WANT A HINT: Look in "Hidden book." Short book, you'll find it.)
2. What does John the Baptist say about the Holy Spirit? (See Matthew 3:11 and Mark 1:7-8)
3. Using a concordance, look up some Old Testament passages about the Spirit of God. When and for what purpose does God give His Spirit?
4. Read through other passages in Acts where the Holy Spirit came on the people. What happened?
5. How is the work of the Spirit related to faith? Support with Scripture.
6. The same Spirit that led the people of the Old and New Testaments is the same Spirit that fills us today. Why do you think we, in the United States, don't see some of the same dramatic results as they saw then or as some believers see in other countries now?

Ephesians 5:15-17 "Wisdom vs Foolishness"

"Be very careful, then, how you live -- not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is." NIV

To completely understand this verse you have to sort of read it backwards. Start with the "Therefore." We are told to "not be foolish," which is the opposite of wise, and "understand God's will." How do we understand God's will? Well, first we can't be living foolishly which means avoiding all the stuff we've been discussing in 4:25-5:7. Then we must be in communion with Him through His Word and the Holy Spirit's counsel. His Spirit will guide and direct us each day if we will only "listen" for His leading.

Therefore, if I am living wisely -- not in the ways of this world, but in imitation of God and Christ's love, and focused on God's leading in my life, I will be able to make "the most of every opportunity" to shine as a light in a dark world. It's a very simple plan, even if it is not always easy to execute, and it begins with the surrender of living life our own way to living by God's plan.

The enemy works very hard to appeal to our arrogance and desire for instantaneous pleasure. Both feel really good. But when you completely submit to our Lord's desire, the satisfaction is so far greater, not to mention the eternal rewards. There is no greater high than knowing our Lord has guided you to do something or say something that you know is completely from Him. When you know you've walked in His light and not your own understanding of a situation; when you bring someone to tears of joy for saying something to them they needed to hear because God told you to; when you are serving Him and someone comes to know Him in a greater way because you were there at that moment ready and available, you will not be able to describe the joy that brings. There is no other event on this earth that brings more satisfaction than doing our Lord's will. Unfortunately, for some believers living in places of persecution, it is not always a joyful obedience. But from their testimonies, we've learned that they would have never chosen another way. The right choice is to avoid the days of evil, and choose to live in wisdom, following the will of God.

Lord, whether in peaceful times or persecution, help me to make the right choice to always live wisely for You.

Further Thoughts:

1. Making these choices relates back to what our purpose is. Reread Ephesians 1.
2. Read through some of Proverbs. It is full of instruction on living wisely. Especially take note Solomon's message to his sons in Chapter 4.
3. Read through the old hymn, "Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah" http://www.cyberhymnal.org/htm/g/u/guideme.htm and ask Him to guide your every step.
4. A pastor at our church last Sunday suggested setting your phone or electronic calendar to alert you 4-5 times a day. When the alarm sounds, stop what you are doing and take some time to acknowledge the Lord and ask His direction. It's a great way to reset your focus in a busy day.

Ephesians 5:8-14 "Living in the Light"

"For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light (for fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) and find out what pleases the Lord. Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them. For it is shameful even to mention what the disobedient do in secret. But everything exposed by the light becomes visible, for it is light that makes everything visible. This is why it is said:

'Wake up, O sleeper,
rise from the dead,
and Christ will shine on you.'" NIV

I have a confession....I like watching the CSI shows, much to my husband's boredom. You see, I actually have a scientist's heart. When I was in 8th grade, I wanted to be a research scientist in space and aeronautics. (I'm sure some of you are having a really good laugh over that one right now.) Anyway, when I first started watching CSI, I was always befuddled by the fact that they'd walk into a crime scene with the lights off and use only little flashlights. For Pete's sake, turn on the lights so you can see what happened. But the more I thought about it, the more I realized that they would be able to see more detail if they only focused on one spot at a time. With the contrast of the darkness, the light would be even more effective in spotlighting the evidence. Even traces of evidence would pop out in the single beam.

In the same way, Christ came to earth not only to illuminate the evidence -- the truth of our sinful state -- but to cleanse us so we can become light in a dark world. And our lives, then, become the truth revealers. That's why He needs our fruit to shine in righteousness, goodness, and truth. We are His light in a world living in shadows. They can't see their way, and it is our job to illuminate the path with our lives.

That's why we must put away the immorality, impurity, or greed spoken of in verses 3-7. Those are the things of the darkness, and we can't live in darkness and light at the same time. Those things are not what "pleases the Lord." We must live a life of love as Christ loves, choosing His ways and avoiding the ways of darkness. He wants us to shine with His brightness, to take His light into a world that is blinded by the enemy and wandering aimlessly in the dark.

But we must choose to be His light and live in that power. The darkness can have no power over us unless we give in to it. Live in His power; walk in His light. Never forget, darkness cannot penetrate light, but light always dispels the darkness.

Further Thoughts:

1. Why is our human nature drawn to the darkness? Support with Scripture.
2. In a concordance, look up Scriptures on "light." There are many of them. Read some from the Old and New Testaments. Let them wash over you in remembrance of where God has brought you from and thanksgiving for the illuminated life He has given you.
3. Augustine said that the conflicting pull of our will "...is a disease of the mind which does not wholly rise to the heights where it is lifted by the truth, because it is weighed down by habit." Are there habits you've maintained in your life that are keeping you from shining in full fruit? What needs to change?
4. Are there dark areas of your life you need to let the light penetrate? Ask the Holy Spirit to illuminate them now.

Ephesians 5:3-7 "You Worship What?!?"

"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 course joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving. 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 with empty words, for because of such things God's wrath comes on those who are disobedient. Therefore do not be partners with them." NIV

I've never really thought of an immoral, impure or greedy person as an idolater before. What is an idolater? "One who worships idols, a devotee." What's an idol? Webster's says, "That on which the affections are strongly (often excessively) set; an object of passionate devotion; a person or thing greatly loved or adored." The Greek word Paul uses here for idolater is eidololatres which means "a worshipper of false gods, an idolater; used of any one even Christian, participant in any way in the worship of the heathen, esp. one who attends their sacrificial feasts and eats of the remains of offered victims, a covetous man as a worshipper of Mammon "

Alright, so what? Think about it. When we allow ourselves to be pulled into immorality, impurity or greed, even the hint of it, we become devoted worshippers of those things. They become our god. And God's Word clearly states in the very first commandment, "You shall have no other gods before me." Our God is a jealous god. He demands that if we are going to follow Him, we follow no one else. He is it. And our entire devotion must be directed at God and on nothing or no one other than Him.

You see, Christ wants to not only be your Savior, the one who saves you from your sins and eternal separation from God, but He also wants to be your Lord, the one you worship and are devoted to. Salvation may be easy, but devotion takes commitment. It requires sacrifice and selflessness. And if I am going to invest time being devoted to something or someone, do I want it to be fleeting moments of pleasure on this earth or to the Eternal who saved me from my sins? The equation seems very simple to me when you look at the big picture. Our Father wants fully devoted followers, not fire escapees, and His demands are not unreasonable. However, the consequences of not following them are eternal. I don't plan on losing my inheritance over some idol. I choose to follow one God, one Lord, no matter what.

Further Thoughts:

1. Look up instances in the Old Testament where God's people worshipped idols. What was the outcome? (Hint: While Moses was on Mt. Sinai, etc.)
2. Find lists in the New Testament of the immorality, impurity, and greed we are to avoid. Compare those with the Fruit of the Spirit, the Beatitudes, and other passages that list how we are to live.
3. What is the distinction between Christ as Savior and Christ as Lord? Who are you following?
4. Is there any hint of sexual immorality, impurity, or greed in your life? Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal it to you now, confess it as sin, and stop doing it.

Ephesians 5:1-2 "Monkey See, Monkey Do"

"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." NIV

"Imitate" and "love" -- sounds easy enough. Since I was a little girl, I've loved to mimic. Once when I was about ten, I pretended I was Ginger Grant from Gilligan's Island. I pursed my lips like her and spoke in a sultry voice. My mom really burst my bubble when she said, "Honey, you ain't ever going to be sexy." She wasn't trying to be mean; after all, I was a freckle-faced tomboy. But I'd act in character every chance I'd get. Still love to act and pretend to be someone else. So I think I've got this imitate thing down.

And love, how hard is that? I love my husband, and my kids, and my friends. I love to read; I love dark chocolate; I love Sunday afternoon naps. That's not so tough, right?

But then this verse throws in some qualifiers that change the entire picture. First, I am to imitate God! You might as well say I should grow two heads and five feet. It just ain't gonna happen.... But wait, it didn't say that I am to be exactly like God and incorporate ALL his attributes. I am to imitate Him; not the real thing but a likeness of God. I love that it says, "as dearly loved children." Just as we hope that our children will follow the examples we are for them, so God, who loves us more than we love ourselves, wants us to follow in His "footsteps." We have a big parent to live up to, but we also can't choose any better hero to imitate. Can't get any higher than the Almighty Creator of the Universe. And the cool part is, we already have His Spirit living within us. We just have to surrender to it and "put on the new self" that is like Him.

Then that love thing. I'm guessing it's not talking about my dark chocolate. Christ's love was completely sacrificial. Not only did He provide through His love a way of salvation for me, but also demonstrated how I am to love -- with all my being. And in this way, my life can become a "fragrant offering" to my Father.

When my kids were babies, I LOVED smelling their little heads. There is just nothing sweeter than the smell of a baby's head. (In fact, I still love to smell their heads. They think I'm weird.) But I imagine that when I show love -- truly show love -- to my fellow man, it pleases my Father so much that He leans down and breathes in deeply from the top of my head, relishing the sweet fragrance of His child.

Father, teach me how to live like you, imitating your every move. And fill my entire being with Your love so I can share the love of Christ with others through my actions and words. I need more of You, Lord.

Further Thoughts:

1. How is the Jesus/Disciples' relationship an example to us as to how we are to live our lives? Give examples from Scripture.
2. Does it hurt the Father when we choose to act contrary to His character? Support your answer with Scripture.
3. What does the Old Testament say about fragrant offerings and what God thinks of them? How do they correlate to the way we live our life now?
4. Is it possible for us to love like Christ? How? Support with Scripture.
5. Spend some time looking into the "mirror" of your life. Where are you imitating God well, and where does there need to be more "putting on" happening?