Ephesians 4:1-3 "I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; Endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace."

There is a right way and wrong way to live your life.  Paul had just finished stating the possibilities of great things that can happen in the lives of believers through the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit.  These great things being accomplished would result in God receiving glory in the church. (See Ephesians 3:20-21) With that statement, Paul gives a formula for every believer, that, if followed and lived, it will bring greatness in the church. Notice the formula:

• Walk Worthy of the Vocation Wherewith Ye Are Called.  This is a general admonition that speaks of the way we walk (live) as a Christian.  We are told to walk "worthy" which describes how to walk (live), we are to walk in a manner worthy and suitable for one who knows Jesus Christ as Savior.

• Walk in Lowliness and Meekness.  These two words speak of a self-imposed attitude.  "Lowliness" speaks of not being high minded, but rather having a humble opinion of one's self. It speaks of our "littleness."  "Meekness" speaks of a mild and gentle approach towards life and others.

• Walk Practicing Longsuffering.  This speaks of patience and endurance practiced in our own lives, and toward others.  

• Make sure to Forbear in Love.  To "forbear" speaks about holding yourself erect, to sustain, and remain firm.  Love is to be the sustaining influence in our lives.

• Endeavor to keep Unity in the Bond of Peace.  To endeavor is to exert yourself and be diligent in keeping unity.  Our goal is to enjoy peace and unity that positively impacts our service for Christ.

Please take the time to meditate upon this formula.  If it is followed and practiced in your life, the Lord will do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think.  Any Bible-believing church would become a great church.

Your Friend and HIS,

Pastor Abbott

MEDITATIONS

1. What does it mean for you to be a Christian? How are you walking worthy of your calling to salvation?

2. How would you describe your life? What does it mean to walk in “lowliness”?

3. Define the word “meekness.” Who do you know that is meek, and why do you believe they are meek?

4. Is love one of the primary elements in your life? How is this demonstrated?

5. Do you put forth an effort to maintain unity in your relationships? How can this be accomplished in the church?