We are saved by grace through faith, a gift from God, not our efforts. God’s grace forgives us when we choose to be saved from sin.
To be like Christ, we should follow God’s example. See what He does, then do it, like children who learn appropriate behavior from their parents.
Therefore, become imitators of God as His children.
To be imitators, do more for each other. As God forgives our sins and missteps, we should forgive others. He blesses us with gifts beyond our daily needs, and we should bless others.
God has given us fruits of the Spirit. Experience these fruits by treating others with love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.
As imitators of God, we can follow the Apostle Paul’s ways to live a wise life in Christ. First, we should take a close look at how we live. Second, we should make the most of our time. Third, we should understand the will of God and don’t act foolishly.
The Message Bible, Ephesians 5:11-20, clearly states the mandate: “Don’t waste your time on useless work, mere busy work, the barren pursuits of darkness. Expose these things for the sham they are. It’s a scandal when people waste their lives on things they must do in the darkness that no one will see. Rip the cover off those frauds and see how attractive they look in the light of Christ. Wake up from your sleep. Climb out of your coffins. Christ will show you the light!
Watch your step, use your head and make the most of every chance you get. These are desperate times!”
We know the world is God’s good creation and that every day is a special gift. This is the time to live in the good works for which God created us.
Seek God’s will. Discerning God’s will involves sifting through our desires and using the data and information gathered about each choice before deciding. When we see an option that increases faith, hope and love, trust it, knowing it’s from God.
“Therefore, do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is,” (Ephesians 5:17, New International Version).
How then? Prayer puts us in touch with Him. Regardless of what’s going on in life, “a still small voice could be heard,” (Exodus 3:2). God communicates and makes His will clear. Pay attention.
Editor’s Note: The views expressed in this commentary piece do not necessarily the express the opinions of The Cincinnati Herald.