Pam Parish

As I continue my journey through Ephesians with Ephesians 2, I’m reminded that I haven’t always been the person that I am today. In Paul’s words, “Once you were dead because of your disobedience and your many sins. You used to live in sin, just like the rest of the world, obeying the devil - the commander of the powers in the unseen world. He is the spirit at work in the hearts of those who refuse to obey God. All of us used to live that way, following the passionate desires and inclinations of our sinful nature.” I remember my old life, I thought I was “free” doing what I wanted without any “rules” - but, really, I was completely unhappy and I remember often feeling like life just sucked and had no real meaning. But I’ve found that it isn’t about a bunch of rules at all - the closer I get to Jesus, the more I want to be just like Him. I’ve discovered that the peace I feel because I know He loves me and wants the best for me (Jer. 29:11) is so much better than the ‘pleasures’ I found in my old life. I’ve said it before, but - honestly - I don’t know how I would have made it through so many of the times in my life if it weren’t for my relationship with God. 

God’s rich love and mercy found me, even in my sinful life, and made me a new person - alive in Him. Just as Paul says, “For we are God’s masterpiece (I love that word). He created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things He planned for us long ago.” That’s what I want, to accomplish God’s plan in my life, because I know that when I do that, I’ll find true happiness, fulfillment and peace. And because God’s plan is always people - I get the opportunity to see many lives changed as God works through me to make a difference for others. What better reward is there than that?

I love the way Paul ends Chapter 2, “… You are citizens along with all of God’s holy people. You are members of God’s family. Together, we are His house…” I love that.

Be Blessed,