Devotional
In the first half of Ephesians, we learn the incredible truth of the Gospel: Jesus came for us.
He lived, died, and rose again so that we could have a relationship with Him. Because of Jesus, nothing can separate us from God, and we have been brought into His family.
So, if the Gospel has changed us, how should we live?
Ephesians 4 gives us the answer.
One word appears again and again throughout the chapter: one.
“There is one body and one Spirit… one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all.”
— Ephesians 4:4–6
We may have different personalities, backgrounds, opinions, and stories, but Jesus has made us one.
We aren't united because we agree on everything. We're united because we have the same Savior.
Because of this, Paul tells us to:
“Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”
— Ephesians 4:3
Unity isn't always easy.
People will frustrate us. They'll hurt us, misunderstand us, and sometimes disagree with us. But Paul reminds us that following Jesus means learning to live differently.
We are called to be humble, patient, forgiving, and willing to pursue peace.
Living in Unity
Paul also tells us to “put off” our old selves and “put on” the new self (Ephesians 4:22–24). In other words, our lives should begin to look more like Jesus because of what He has done in us.
Put Off
The Old Self
The attitudes, habits, and actions that no longer reflect who you are in Christ.
Put On
The New Self
A life shaped by the truth, character, humility, and love of Jesus.
The Gospel isn't just something we believe; it's something that changes how we live.
So what would it look like for your life to reflect Jesus today?
Maybe it's forgiving someone.
Maybe it's choosing peace instead of winning an argument.
Maybe it's apologizing when you've been wrong.
Maybe it's refusing to participate in gossip.
Maybe it's choosing to love someone who is difficult to love.
We don't have to create unity—Jesus has already given it to us. Our job is to live it out.
Application
Live out the unity Jesus has given you.
Pursue peace.
Is there a relationship where you've been avoiding conflict, holding onto frustration, or waiting for the other person to make the first move?
Ask Jesus to help you take a step toward peace.
Put off the old. Put on the new.
What is one attitude, habit, or way of treating others that doesn't reflect Jesus?
Ask Him to help you replace it with something that does.
Live like you're one.
Look for an opportunity this week to encourage, forgive, include, or serve another believer.
Remember that we are part of the same family because of Jesus.