Ephesians Part 43

As we reach the close of Paul’s letter to the Ephesians, we can look back and see the rich spiritual landscape he has guided us through. He began with the eternal plan of God—a breathtaking revelation that we were chosen before the foundation of the world, adopted as sons and daughters through Christ, redeemed by His blood, and sealed with the Holy Spirit as a guarantee of our inheritance. God’s purpose has always been constructive and restorative. He is building a family, a holy temple fit for His presence, with Christ as the cornerstone and His people joined together in unity and love. He reconciles us when we go astray.   

Paul urged the Church to walk worthy of such a calling. We are no longer who we once were. The old life, corrupted and fading, has been put away. We now live as those who have learned Christ, who have been taught by Him through His Word, and who are being renewed in mind and spirit day by day. This new life is visible in our marriages, our homes, our workplaces, our fellowship and our character. We are called to humility, patience, holiness, forgiveness, truth and peace. Every interaction becomes a testimony of the One we follow. 

Yet, the Christian life is not lived on a peaceful road. There is a battle—unseen, unrelenting—against spiritual forces of evil that seek to destroy what God is building. Paul commands us to stand in the strength of the Lord and the power of His might. We stand clothed in the armor God provides: 

• The belt of truth, grounding us in God’s Word. 
• The breastplate of righteousness, guarding our hearts. 
• The shoes of the gospel of peace, giving us readiness and stability. 
• The shield of faith, extinguishing every fiery lie of the enemy. 
• The helmet of salvation, protecting our minds with hope and assurance. 
• The sword of the Spirit, the living and active Word of God in our hands. 

And above all, we stand in prayer—the continual connection to our Commander, the power that animates the armor, the posture of dependence that brings the victory. 

Paul reminds us that we are not alone. We pray for one another. We encourage one another. We uphold the mission together as ambassadors of Christ. And God supplies every need. 

This is the great message of Ephesians: 

• God has called you.
• God is forming you.
• God equips you.
• God sends you.
• God completes His work in you. 

Every step of our walk, every moment we stand firm, every spiritual struggle we endure moves us closer to the final revelation—when Christ returns and when righteousness fills the earth, when the family of God is united forever in glory and peace.

UYA Team | uya@ucg.org  

United Young Adults (UYA) primarily serves the 18–32-year age group for the United Church of God. There are three main areas of contribution to the lives of the young adults: Promoting Spiritual Growth, Developing Meaningful Relationships and Making the Most of Your Talents. The Know Your Sword series is a daily expository message introducing God’s Word from a trusted perspective.