The Apostle Paul wrote these words to the believers at Ephesus, begging them to live a life worthy of their calling, reminding them that they had been called by God Himself.

Mind you, these words are written to those in an ongoing relationship with Jesus Christ. One of salvation and obedience to God. So, Believer, these words are meant for you.

Always be humble and gentle. Always. In all cases, in all circumstances, in all locations, every time. There’s no need to toot your own horn about how righteous you are. Live with self-control, not letting rage or foolishness be your trademarks.

Be patient with each other. Your spiritual siblings are no more perfect than you are. You are all striving to become more like Christ, and sometimes you falter, flop, and fail. Be patient! Just like with a child learning to walk, we must continually work with those who don’t know to grow them to the place where they are living a life of mature faith.

Making allowance for each other’s faults. That faltering, flopping, and failing? We must not condemn those who have as though those are fatal. In Christ, they are not. We must lift that one to their feet and begin again in building up their faith, teaching them obedience to the Father, even as we model that very thing.

No. This does not mean overlooking the faults. Not at all. The most loving, most faith-filled discipleship gift we can give a person is the loving correction to help move them from sin to sanctity. Just like parents raising children to be responsible adults, Believers should strive to raise disciples to be faithful, devoted, obedient followers of Jesus.

Who helped you grow in your faith, came alongside you and taught you about God and how to apply scripture to your life? Who have you taught? Who are you leading through your calling?

Coffee, Bible, Journal.