August 28

I, therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, entreat you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling with which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, showing forbearance to one another in love, being diligent to preserve the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. Ephesians 4:1-3.

It is interesting that Paul, in this letter, does not ask them to walk until this fourth chapter. Paul first shows them their many blessings in verses 1:3-14. The blessings include spiritual blessings in Christ, chosen to be holy and blameless in Christ, adoption as sons, the glory of His grace, redemption, forgiveness, an inheritance—all culminating in their seal into Christ with the Holy Spirit. Yes, they would never be able to walk the Christian life without first realizing their amazing position in Christ. Then they will be properly equipped.

So it is with us. We do not learn to walk with Jesus so that we can then experience the blessings. Instead, we accept the blessings by faith and then we will be able to walk the Christian life. This is so fundamental to the ways of God, but it is often missed by even experienced Christians. It is a principle that I, as well, need to continually learn.

Today, Lord Jesus, I look forward to my walk with You. Thank You for equipping me with all that You have earned for me—the redemption, the forgiveness, the inheritance as a son, and all the attributes that were paid for by Your sacrifice at the cross. I can only be more thankful and more eager to walk with You when I understand these things. Thank You that it is always by faith that I am to live; all endeavors in my own strength would only fail. Thank You for this day, Amen.
                                        Back