A New Way of Life

Written By Betty Predmore

EPHESIANS 4:17-32

September 26

Building up our church and being what we are called to be in Christ will offer us a new way of life. Paul is reminding the Ephesians that they will no longer be walking around with a futile lifestyle, feeling empty and without purpose. They will no longer be living in the darkness of unbelief and ignorance.

Because of the new truth of Christ, they have learned, they will have a new way of life that offers renewed thoughts and a lifestyle of holy and righteous living. They receive this when they receive Christ and let the Holy Spirit reside within them, leading and empowering them to be righteous.

Paul reminds them that anger offers the devil a golden opportunity to steal what they have received in this new way of life. He suggests that they deal with any anger immediately, and not let themselves take it into a new day.

How often do we get mad and stay mad? We sit and wallow in our anger, letting the enemy have a field day with our minds and hearts. Little by little, before we realize it, we are back in the pit of darkness. A little anger can do a lot of damage.

Paul reminds the Ephesians (and it is a great reminder for us as well), about keeping away from unwholesome speech and instead, using our words to build each other up.

Both he and Jesus were wonderful examples of this. Even when his ship was sinking, Paul encouraged those on the ship with him (Acts 27:22), Jesus did the same thing in Matthew 14:27. And when Paul was being persecuted, the Lord came beside him and gave him encouragement (Acts 23:11).

They did this, and so can we. There are so many among us who walk around carrying a heavy load of burdens. They are weary from the struggles of life and feeling hopeless. So many times, we look the other way, not wanting to get involved or not knowing what to do.

Jesus wants us to walk TOWARDS those people, not AWAY from them. He wants us to use our words to offer encouragement and hope to those who are feeling the weariness of a troubled life.

We need to ask God to give us eyes that recognize those around us who are in need, and hearts that have a desire to speak life into their despair. Our words can do so much to build up others, and we have the potential to make a huge impact for Christ on the life of those around us.

Be watchful. Be mindful. Be ready.

Let God use this new way of life he has given you to build up others, so that they can experience hope and love the way you have. Together, we can be a mighty tool for Jesus and a mighty weapon against the enemy.

Are you ready?

Betty Predmore

Betty Predmore is a writer, blogger, speaker and ministry leaders. She is the founder of Mom-Sense, Inc., a ministry designed for mentorship, connection and service to women of all life circumstances. Through this ministry, women are encouraged and supported with scripture and life application. Mom-Sense helps women overcome life struggles through small group classes with biblical curriculum, individual counseling, bible studies, and other areas of support.

Betty also directs the Imperial Valley Life Center, which is a non-profit faith-based pro life women’s resource center. She has a passion for saving the unborn and supporting mothers through pregnancy and motherhood.

Betty loves to speak at events, sharing the love of Jesus with other women. She does this through practical life application mingled with God’s word, and sprinkled with humor. Having experienced a broken home, divorce, abuse, grief, single motherhood, blended families, and adoption, she uses the broken places and movement of God in her own life to share His word in an inspiring way. She enjoys sharing her blogs on social media as a way of reaching out on a broader spectrum. Betty has many speaking topics which can be found on her website: www.bettypredmore.com

As an author, she has had the opportunity to impact women and reach deep into their hearts with her words of inspiration and encouragement. Through Pondering Virtue and Whispered Grace, she has created wonderful tools for the woman who is seeking direction in her spiritual walk.

Betty serves on the writing team of A Wife Like Me, and is also a contributor to Moms Encouraging Moms and Gift of Thorns. Her blogs have appeared in several magazine publications throughout the years including Southern Faith Magazine, Purposeful Life, and Aspiring Woman Magazine.

While Betty thrives on her ministry opportunities, her greatest blessings come from being a wife to Jim and a mama to their wonderful collection of children, who bring joy, laughter, and an occasional tear to her days.


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