Note: I am hospitalized with COVID pneumonia. I am going to set these next several to post, and will add my devotional if I am able.
Ephesians: A Worthy Walk
Background: For the next month, we will be studying the Book of Ephesians, a letter Paul wrote while he was in jail in Rome, awaiting his first trial. Ephesus was one of his best churches, and he spent a lot of time there on his missionary journeys. The church likely planted the other churches of Asia Minor that Jesus referenced in Revelation 2-3.
Ephesians is easily outlined. Chapters 1-3 speak of the great salvation we have in Christ, which comes by grace through faith alone. Then, 4:1 is the turning point, where Paul admonishes them to "walk worthy of the calling you have received." We cannot be worthy of Christ's salvation - it is a gift of grace. But having received it, we can then, by the Spirit's power, WALK worthy. Chapters 4-6 describe the worthy walk. This is a favorite template for Paul. He develops a doctrine then applies it practically.
As often as time allows, the reader is encouraged to read the entire book - it will not take more than a few minutes. Each day we will work our way through the book passage by passage.
Today's Reading: Ephesians 1-6 Focus Passage - Ephesians 6:1-4
Children, obey your parents in the Lord, because this is right. 2 Honor your father and mother, which is the first commandment with a promise, 3 so that it may go well with you and that you may have a long life in the land. 4 Fathers, don’t stir up anger in your children, but bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.
Through the Bible Readings: Isaiah62-63, 2 Corinthians 11:1–15, Psalm 108:1–5, Proverbs 23:29–30
If you wish to read through the Bible in a year, follow these readings.
Devotional: Stable Homes, Strong Society
In all the commands of the Bible, this one stands alone as a fundamental building block of culture. When verse 3 tells us this command, to honor our parents, is the key to a good and long life, it is directed nationally at Israel.
Yes, obedience tends to make our lives better, but what this passage tells us is that it is how strong societies are built. Loving parents raising obedient children.
Somehow, the concept of discipline has fallen into disrepute but not in God's kingdom.
As far as stirring up wrath in children, there seem to be several ways to do that.
*Harsh, unloving discipline causes wrath.
*Belittling words cause wrath. Discipline is action, not badgering.
*Permissiveness without standards communicates a lack of concern.
*A failure to be consistent causes anger.
We need to discipline in love- that is the key.
Father, help us to build homes that glorify you.
Think and Pray:
Examine your relationship to parents and children in light of this passage
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