Paul writes of numerous characteristics of our old self that we, like the church in Ephesus, should put down in order to live more like Christ. Behaviors like anger, lying, pride, gossip, revenge, and greed, to name a few. In a church context all of those sound bad, yet if I’m honest with myself I willingly chose to act in such ways at times without anyone twisting my arm to do so. Yes, I know God desires me to live differently, but it ultimately comes down to a faith struggle about if God’s way is best. Sure, I know telling the truth is His way, but but but… lying feels easier or the path of least resistance. I love the truth of Psalm 18:30, one I can’t remind myself of enough…God’s way is best, and despite my flesh’s instincts to doubt his ways, He truly has my best interests in mind as he calls me to be an imitator of Him. Lord, please strengthen my faith and allow me to walk in Your love.
“Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.”
Ephesians 5:1-2