Reading the book of Ephesians felt like being reminded of
who I am—and whose I am. From the very beginning, Paul did not start with
correction or conflict. He started with identity. He started with purpose. And
it was like he was speaking directly to me.
He said I am chosen. Adopted. Redeemed. Sealed. Blessed.
That kind of language was so rich, so affirming, that I had to go back and read
it again slowly. Because the truth is, I do not always feel chosen. I do
not always walk like someone who has been sealed with a promise. But Ephesians
reminded me that my identity is not based on how I feel—it is based on what God
has already done.
Paul took his time laying the foundation. He reminded the
believers in Ephesus that they were once far off, without hope, without God—but
now? They had been brought near. Reconciled. United. That hit me. Because
sometimes I forget just how far grace had to reach to get me. And how beautiful
it is that God did not just save me individually—He placed me in a body. A
family. A church.
And then came chapter 3, where Paul talks about the mystery
of the gospel and his role in sharing it. He prayed that we would be
strengthened in the inner being and know the love of Christ—how wide, how long,
how high, how deep. I paused there. Because I need that kind of strength. I
need that kind of love. And I need to remember that I do not have to earn it.
It is already mine.
But Paul did not stop with who we are. He moved into how we
live. Chapters 4 through 6 were like spiritual marching orders. He said, “Live
a life worthy of the calling you have received.” That was a heart check.
Because I can know all the right things and still walk in a way that does not
reflect them.
He talked about unity. About maturity. About putting off the
old self and putting on the new one. About not giving the enemy a foothold.
About living in the light. That part about not letting anger linger? Yeah… that
got me. Because sometimes I hold on to things too long. Paul was clear—let it
go. Do not give the devil room to work.
Then he closed with the armor of God. And I felt like he was
reminding me that this life is a spiritual battle. That I cannot walk through
it casually or carelessly. I need to be dressed. Covered. Alert. Standing firm.
Reading Ephesians reminded me that I am not lacking—I am
loved. That I am not wandering—I am walking in purpose. That I am not
powerless—I have access to every spiritual blessing in Christ. And I need to
live like I believe it.