In what ways can we "walk in them" as the righteous do? Scripture Focus “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared in advance as our way of life, that we should walk in them.” (Ephesians 2:10) Meaning of “Walk in Them” • “Walk” in the New Testament pictures a continuous, habitual lifestyle (cf. Colossians 2:6). • “Them” refers to the “good works” God designed, not random deeds we invent. • The righteous therefore live out a pattern of life aligned with God’s pre-planned purposes. Ways the Righteous Walk in God-Prepared Works • Cultivate Daily Fellowship with Christ – Abide in the Vine; fruitful works flow from union with Him (John 15:4-5). – Begin each day acknowledging His lordship and seeking His guidance (Proverbs 3:5-6). • Obey Scripture Wholeheartedly – Let the Word set the agenda (Psalm 119:105). – Good works match clear commands: honesty, purity, compassion (James 1:22). • Depend on the Holy Spirit – “If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit” (Galatians 5:25). – He supplies power, wisdom, and love that our flesh cannot generate (Romans 8:4). • Practice Christlike Love in Relationships – Serve family, church, neighbors with tangible care (1 John 3:18). – Forgive quickly and reconcile (Ephesians 4:32). • Use Spiritual Gifts for the Body’s Edification – God equips each believer for specific ministries (1 Peter 4:10-11). – Engage actively in your local congregation’s mission. • Do Justice and Show Mercy – “Do justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God” (Micah 6:8). – Stand for the oppressed, give generously, visit the sick and imprisoned (Matthew 25:35-36). • Maintain Moral Integrity – Reject cultural compromise; pursue holiness in thought, speech, and conduct (1 Peter 1:15-16). – Guard media intake, financial dealings, and sexual purity (1 Thessalonians 4:3-7). • Shine the Light of the Gospel – Live so others “see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16). – Share the hope of Christ verbally; good works prepare the soil for the Word (1 Peter 3:15-16). • Steward God-Given Resources Wisely – Time: prioritize kingdom pursuits (Ephesians 5:15-16). – Talents: refine skills for God’s glory (Colossians 3:23-24). – Treasure: give faithfully, budget ethically, invest eternally (2 Corinthians 9:6-8). • Persevere in Faith and Gratitude – “Let us not grow weary in well-doing” (Galatians 6:9). – Thankfulness fuels endurance and guards against legalism (Colossians 2:6-7). Walking Worthy Today The righteous do not create their own path; they discover and follow the one God has prepared. By staying close to Christ, saturated in Scripture, empowered by the Spirit, and active in love, we continually step into the good works already waiting for us—showing a watching world the workmanship of God. |
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