RELATIONAL REALITY

If I’m completely honest with myself, it’s a challenge to live out today’s verse. The only way I can do that is to have the supernatural power of Jesus Christ, through his indwelling Holy Spirit, constantly and consistently, operating in me.

This is only achieved when I lock myself away in prayerful isolation with my heavenly Father. Where I confess my wretched behavior and ask him to restore me from every mess I’ve wandered into. Then seeing, with renewed eyes, that I’ve gotten in the way of God’s divine power, causing a disruption in how I’ve been called to walk in relationship with others.

So, it’s paramount that I, as a true believer in and follower of Christ, cement my identity in Jesus and understand that my stroll with the Savior, who called me his friend the moment I received salvation and made himself known to me (John 15:13-15), is the only way I can mirror him in my daily interactions and friendships.

It’s certainly not easy or seamless. Relationships become complicated by hurt, unmet expectations and betrayal. Navigating our way through those areas can be tricky but not impossible. Especially when we begin to live by God’s commands and leading from his Word, like in Ephesians 4:2.

The apostle Paul was bold and emphatic in his teachings because they were the words of his Lord, to whom Paul was a prisoner (Ephesians 3:1) and, by his passionate preaching, completely sold out for. Christ was the example by which Paul lived and why he diligently implored everyone he came into contact with to live in the same ways.

As closely acquainted as Paul was with his Messiah, he didn’t consider himself better than anyone else. He knew his shortcomings well (Romans 7:18-19), but lived in the relational reality of who he was in Jesus, while pursuing Christlikeness. That authenticity fuelled Paul’s love and compassion for those he encountered.

As believers, let us pursue and live in that same relational reality as Paul did. To, “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.” (Ephesians 4:2-3), and extend the same grace to one another that, “...has been given as Christ apportioned it.” (Ephesians 4:7)

Abba Father, I love you and the relationship we share. Empty me of me and fill me with you so that I would grow in Christlikeness and be his ambassador as I walk in relationship with others here on earth. Thank you for showing me the way into godliness from your word and the wonderful example of your perfect son, Jesus Christ. I praise you, O God! Amen!

Throughout This Day: Ask for God’s supernatural strength in applying Ephesians 4:2 to the difficult relationships in your life.