Living in the Spirit
August 16, 2018
Scripture Reading: Ephesians 5:15-20
Be careful then how you live, not as unwise people but as wise, making the most of the time, because the days are evil. So do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. Do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery; but be filled with the Spirit, as you sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs among yourselves, singing and making melody to the Lord in your hearts, giving thanks to God the Father at all times for everything in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
I may get what Paul talks about being careful how we present ourselves as followers of Christ better than some. I worked as a state employee for 35 years. It really does not matter how much good government employees do, usually the only stories that involve state employees that make the evening news are not positive. I remember when email was initiated in my agency. Staff was sending jokes and an occasional snide comment that were not appropriate for prime time as they tried the new system. I advised everyone I supervised to not put anything in writing anywhere that they would not want their mother to read on the front page of the local paper. I was referring to their work email, but I think it is true of private emails also. If nothing else, they could be accused of misuse of government time even if it only took a few seconds and getting something off one’s chest cleared his or her mind to be more attentive to their job.
Others see us through their unique filters. If some situation in their life has colored their viewpoints in any way, we need to take that into consideration in how we interact with them. Paul obeyed Jewish customs when interacting with Jews and gentile customs when interacting with gentiles. Some may think that is being hypocritical, but it is not. It is putting the needs of the other ahead of one’s own desires. If we do anything that will make another feel uncomfortable we may lose our entrance to introducing them to the ways of Jesus.
Prayer: Help me to love others as you love me accepting me as I am and helping me grow in your love. Amen.