Ephesians 5: 1 –
4 (NIV) 1 Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children 2 and walk
in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a
fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. 3 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. 4 Nor should there be obscenity,
foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving.
If we
summed up how Paul wants us to respond to God’s great love for us, we could do
it with three words: follow God’s example. Just three words, but not so easy to
do. The Bible is clear that God wants us to be like him. He wants us to be
holy, he wants us to forgive. He wants us to love everyone. Paul says it was
God’s plan before we were even born that we should be like Christ. Earlier in
Ephesians, Paul says God predestined us to be like Christ. Jesus is our one and
only standard.
And Jesus loves with a sacrificial love. He gave himself for us. That’s what real love is all about. Why does God care if we live holy lives? Because the whole world is watching to see how our faith affects us. And because he wants strong families where we love and trust each other and live securely in that. Some argue that God is taking the fun out of life, but the longer I live, the more I realize he is protecting us and offering us the best, most pleasurable life possible.
So what we say and how we conduct ourselves really does matter. If we want to live the contented, peaceful, satisfying life that God offers, we will do things God’s way. And our goal will be simple: follow God’s example.
And, instead of spewing obscenities and hatred, we will live in such a way that shows God we are thankful for his goodness to us. This Holiday season, I encourage each of us to live in such a way that we show God we are thankful. Take a few moments to tell him. Live your life as someone who is thankful, and remember to always follow His example.
And Jesus loves with a sacrificial love. He gave himself for us. That’s what real love is all about. Why does God care if we live holy lives? Because the whole world is watching to see how our faith affects us. And because he wants strong families where we love and trust each other and live securely in that. Some argue that God is taking the fun out of life, but the longer I live, the more I realize he is protecting us and offering us the best, most pleasurable life possible.
So what we say and how we conduct ourselves really does matter. If we want to live the contented, peaceful, satisfying life that God offers, we will do things God’s way. And our goal will be simple: follow God’s example.
And, instead of spewing obscenities and hatred, we will live in such a way that shows God we are thankful for his goodness to us. This Holiday season, I encourage each of us to live in such a way that we show God we are thankful. Take a few moments to tell him. Live your life as someone who is thankful, and remember to always follow His example.
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