SOAP Ephesians 4: That Means Me!

That Means Me!

Ephesians 4

For his “body” has been formed in his image and is closely joined together and constantly connected as one. And every member has been given divine gifts to contribute to the growth of all; and as these gifts operate effectively throughout the whole body, we are built up and made perfect in love.

‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭4‬:‭16‬ ‭TPT‬‬

I can say that I have never read this chapter in the light I have this time. It has challenged my thoughts and my biases, it is beautifully offending me.

As I said in my previous post on Ephesians 1, these pages if you allow will challenge and shape your identity. And leave it to God to push me just a little bit further.

I don't know about you, but I have had an understanding that I am a part of God’s church. I am woven in and a part of something much larger than myself. All true. I can't say though, that I have adopted “church” or “body of christ” as part of my identity. I've talked about His church as a collective unit, as we, but not as I.

Maybe that doesn’t make much of a difference to some, but I can say that I haven't always talked kindly of other churches or believers.

And never let ugly or hateful words come from your mouth, but instead let your words become beautiful gifts that encourage others; do this by speaking words of grace to help them. The Holy Spirit of God has sealed you in Jesus Christ until you experience your full salvation. So never grieve the Spirit of God or take for granted his holy influence in your life. Lay aside bitter words, temper tantrums, revenge, profanity, and insults. But instead be kind and affectionate toward one another. Has God graciously forgiven you? Then graciously forgive one another in the depths of Christ’s love.

‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭4‬:‭29‬-‭32‬ ‭TPT‬‬

As I read the previous verses I had the thought “if only the church could do this.” I felt the Holy Spirit’s immediate prompting, “You are the church.”  You see, I can push blame all day believing if only someone else would've emulated and practiced the right behaviors for me than I likely could do it much better than I do for others.

These words aren't for just the body of believers they are for me. Speak words of grace. Don't grieve the Holy Spirit by taking for granted His holy influence on me. Lay aside harsh words, bitterness, unforgiveness, profanity, and revenge towards the body of believers and unbelievers alike. And be affectionate and loving.

If you have really experienced the Anointed One, and heard his truth, it will be seen in your life; for we know that the ultimate reality is embodied in Jesus!

‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭4‬:‭21‬ ‭TPT‬‬

It should have never been about what I see others do but what I see Christ do.

Prayer: Thank you Lord for constantly urging me to be the woman you created me to be. For shaping me into the woman you created and declared me to be. I am who You say I am, and I am your bride and church. In Jesus’ name, amen.