Read: Ephesians
6
Ephesians 5 closed with a description of how we can
honour God in marriage. Ephesians 6 opens by describing how we can honour God
in two other types of relationships: parent-child and master-slave. While
marriage is designed as a relationship between two partners on an even playing
field, these relationships have a clear hierarchy. The general principle for
those with lesser influence (children and slaves) is to serve and obey from the
heart, not just in outward action (v 1-3, 5-8). The fact that Paul addresses
children, slaves and women, acknowledging that they have a choice in their
heart about how to behave is empowering. At the time Paul wrote, these groups
would never be acknowledged by society, much less given a choice about their
lives. God loves everybody and demands obedient hearts for all, regardless of
social status. For those of greater power in relationships (parents and
masters), Paul simply says to treat others well, “knowing that both their
Master and yours is in heaven, and there is no partiality in Him” (v 4, 9).
Paul closes his letter to the Ephesians with an
acknowledgement of reality. He knows the Holy Spirit has set the bar high for
believers. He also knows that we are in a spiritual battle for our lives. If we
ignore this battle, we will fall prey to our enemy. However, if we fight with
courage and the Holy Spirit’s help, we will win (v 11). The armour of God
refers to a set of tools God has given us to help us in this battle (v 13-17).
Our strength comes from Him (v 10), but we must actively use His strength.
Prayer and
Journaling
1. Ask God to speak to you about your
relationships. How do you act when you have greater power or influence in a
relationship? What is the condition of your heart? What about when you are in a
position where somebody had power or influence over you? What is God saying
about this?
2. The armour of God is such a common passage of
Scripture that we often skim over it, not pausing to apply it to our lives.
Spend some time thinking about each of the pieces of armour listed in Ephesians
6:13-17. Ask God how He wants you to use this armour in your life.
3. Pray for your family today. Ask God to reveal
specific tactics that the enemy is using against your family. Pray that God
would empower you to battle on behalf of your family. Ask God to protect and
strengthen your loved ones in the fight. Pray that Jesus would gain ground in
your family, and ultimately have victory in their lives. Pray for people in
your family by name, that they would come to know Him and love Him more.
