In our continuing series on Ephesians, we explore one of the most profound truths about the Christian walk – we are called to walk in love. This isn’t just a suggestion; it’s a divine imperative that shapes every aspect of our lives as believers.
The Foundation: We Are Already Blessed
“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ.” – Ephesians 1:3
Before we dive into how to walk in love, we must understand this fundamental truth: you are already blessed. This isn’t something you need to earn or aspire to – it’s your current reality in Christ. This blessing forms the foundation for everything else we’ll discuss.
Three Essential Truths About Walking in Love
1. Walking in Love is a Decision
Just as God decided to love us, we must decide to walk in love. This isn’t about feelings or waiting for the right moment – it’s about making a conscious choice every day to reflect God’s love to others.
“Therefore be imitators of God as dear children. And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us.” – Ephesians 5:1-2
2. Walking in Love is Not Easy
Here’s a truth that might surprise you: walking in love is often counterintuitive to our natural inclinations. In a world that promotes self-interest, choosing to walk in love can feel like swimming upstream. But here’s why this matters…
The challenge isn’t in understanding what to do – it’s in consistently choosing love when everything around us suggests otherwise.
3. Walking in Love Produces Results
While the journey may be challenging, the outcomes are transformative. Walking in love:
- Transforms our families
- Impacts our workplaces
- Changes our communities
- Reflects Christ to the world
Practical Steps to Walk in Love
1. Be Filled with the Spirit Daily
The apostle Paul gives us a clear contrast:
“And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit.” – Ephesians 5:18
This isn’t a one-time filling but a continuous process. Each morning, we need to seek fresh filling of the Holy Spirit to walk in love effectively.
2. Guard Your Conversations
Paul emphasizes the importance of our speech:
“Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification.” – Ephesians 4:29
In our digital age, this includes:
- Social media posts
- Text messages
- Email communications
- Daily conversations
3. Prioritize Family Relationships
The true test of walking in love often begins at home. Whether as spouses, parents, or children, our family relationships provide the primary arena for demonstrating Christ-like love.
The Challenge: A 7-Day Love Walk
I want to challenge you to put this message into practice. For the next 7 days:
- Start each day asking to be filled with the Spirit
- Choose one person each day to show intentional love to
- Journal how God uses your decision to walk in love
- Share your experience with another believer
Remember: You Are Blessed to Be a Blessing
As we conclude, remember this vital truth: you don’t walk in love to become blessed – you walk in love because you are already blessed. When you truly grasp this, it transforms how you approach every relationship and situation in your life.
No one can take away your blessed status in Christ. This security frees you to love others without fear, without conditions, and without expecting anything in return.
Final Thoughts
Walking in love isn’t about perfection – it’s about direction. Each day presents new opportunities to choose love, to reflect Christ, and to impact others. As members of ICA Macau, let’s commit together to this higher calling of walking in love.
Share your journey of walking in love in the comments below, and don’t forget to watch the full sermon for deeper insights into this transformative truth.