July 29 | Ephesians 4:1-7

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DAILY READING

Ephesians 4:1-7

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REFLECTION

Relationships Are Crucial

By Julie Ogg

I often find myself asking God for wisdom and direction in my relationships.  Maybe you do too.  “How should I encourage someone who’s struggling?” “How do I approach this conflict?”  “How do I love this difficult person in my life?”  We’ve been considering vocation over the last few weeks and you may have realized that many of our vocations have to do with relationships.  I, for example, am a wife, daughter, sister, aunt, neighbor, friend, colleague, and member of the Body of Christ.  You will have your own list.

In this passage, Paul urges the Ephesians to “live a life a life worthy of the calling you have received”.  He is addressing our vocations.  How can Paul give blanket instructions to people whose roles vary so dramatically?  How can he know what we need in our particular callings (vocations) at this time in history?  Would the Top 5 Ways to Succeed as an Auto Mechanic be as helpful to a parent of small children or a pilot?  

As humans, we usually want techniques to solve our problems, preferably in bullet points (If they form an acrostic you get extra points!).  We approach Scripture expecting these type of answers.  The Bible, however, shows us the kind of people we want to be. Paul demonstrates the power and wisdom of God in the words that he pens about our callings.  “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.  Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”  Paul is talking about the person of Christ being formed in us (Matthew 11:29).  These characteristics (humility, gentleness, unity) can only emerge as the Sprit works in and through us.  As we abide (John 15:5) in him we bear much fruit.  That fruit is the character of Jesus.

Developing the character and mind of Christ gives us wisdom and direction in every situation we face.  All of our vocations are positively impacted by becoming more like Jesus.  What if next time I asked God for direction I considered the Word he has already provided?  What if I came to Him regularly and really came to know him, not just to have my latest question answered?  

In close relationships we grow to know what those around us would do or say in particular situations.  We are able to anticipate how they would handle themselves.  Spending time with Jesus allows us to know him in a way that gives us confidence in moving forward.  We don’t have to inquire about every little decision because we know that He would have us act in gentleness, humility, and love.

What if, when faced with a difficult relationship, we asked, 

• What would humility look like in this context?  

• How can I show patience to this person?  

• What would communicate love in this conflict?

God invites us to come to him with every situation.  We grow in faith and trust in our times of communion with him.  Next time you stop to spend extended time with Jesus think about getting to know who he is before bringing your list of questions.  You will find answers to many of your questions in the presence and person of Christ.

PRAYER

Lord, I want to become more like you.  I want to spend time getting to know you so that your character flows over into my life.  Please prompt my mind and heart to seek you.  Give me your wisdom in the relationships you’ve given me.  Thank you for loving me enough to draw me to you.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

JULIE OGG

I have lived throughout the Midwest, the last twelve years in Columbus with my husband, Dan, and dog, Lollipop. I love to cook, travel, read, garden, and spend time with our nieces and nephews. I am naturally drawn to the Old Testament, particularly the poetic and prophetic books. I am grateful to be a part of the community of believers at UALC.