Ephesians 5 - 4.24.23
Scripture
Ephesians 5:1 NLT
“Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear children.”
Observation
In the first section of this chapter, Paul encourages believers to imitate God by following the examples of how Jesus lived his life. Paul encourages us to live a life filled with love (vs 2). He encourages us to live pure lives free from sexual immorality, greed, and foolish talk (vs 3-5). We should stay clear and not participate with those who are still living in the darkness/sinfulness (vs 7). Since we are believers, we have the light of Jesus living inside of us. So live as people of light (vs 8)!
Application
Jesus is the perfect role model.
You know when I was in my early 20’s I looked up to The Rock. I remember working out 6 days a week, spending a big portion of my paychecks on sports supplements, just to try to be built like him physically. I remember seeing him on the cover of Mens Fitness Magazines and seeing the clothes he would wear. I would try to shop and find clothes, sunglasses, and watches, just to copy his style. But where did that leave me you may ask? It left me feeling defeated, (because my genetics weren’t like his), and it left me up to my eyeballs in credit card debt! Basically it felt like all that hard work was for nothing!
Now let me tell you about when I rededicated my life to Jesus and began looking up to Him as my reference on how to live my life. My life has more meaning to it. It’s a life where I can find joy in any occasion. It’s a life where I feel more fulfilled by following Jesus and helping others know Him more. It’s a life that has blessed me with a beautiful wife, loving kids, and a church family that is here to love and support me no matter what. It’s a life where I built a deeper relationship with God and His people. And it’s a life where I know I am reaping a more eternal reward; a reward that doesn’t fade or can’t be taken away.
So at the end of the day when I look into the mirror, who should I desire to see looking back at me? I hope it would be someone who loves God and others with all his heart. Someone who puts the needs of others above his own. Someone who honors God with everything they do and say. Someone like Jesus.
Prayer
Father God forgive me for wasting my younger years of life chasing after the wrong things. My desire is to look more and more like Jesus each and every day. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit to live that life that Jesus lived. A life which brings glory and honor to You. May my life point others to see and want to be like Jesus. In Your Holy and precious name I pray, Amen. 🙏🏽
-Moses Gaddi