Word@Work Eph55 - Ephesians 5:3
Published: Thu, 12/11/08
Word@Work from BeaconLight
RAISING THE BAR
Ephesians 5:3 But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God's holy people. (NIV)
Joshua Harris' book, "Not even a hint", has been admired for its boldness in promoting sexual purity. Its tack is unusual (even among Christian books) in dismissing any thought of 'making allowance for human failings'. Of course, the secular world no longer expects absolute standards, and cheerfully separates 'private life' from the responsibilities of public office. Although the press still makes sport of personal immorality among our celebrities and politicians, there is little expectation that people will be hounded out of office unless they have also scored exceptionally badly against their performance targets.
But it is God who sets the performance targets for Christians. 100% is the acceptable pass mark and anything less is not a proper standard. Interestingly, greed is tarred with the same brush as sexual immorality. The principle is the same: greed and immorality both say that what God has provided is not enough. This strikes against the heart of God Himself. To say that His provision is not enough, casts doubt on His knowledge of our needs, or on His wisdom in giving or withholding particular benefits at a particular time, or on His ability to provide for us in power.
Wherever God's people are found (at home, in church or at work), they are designed to be holy, and to be content that if God thought that He should provide anything more or better - he would. In this sin-weary world, we are certainly not back in the Garden of Eden but Satan still launches the same attacks as he did in Genesis ch3. He wants us to doubt God's Word (cf Gen 3:1), God's authority (cf Gen 3:4) and God's provision (cf Gen 3:5). It is those doubts that cause idol-like addictions to all kinds of off-limits activity. The office party does not have a bawdy image without good reason. So this Bible passage may be especially helpful as the Christmas festivities get under way.
Prayer: Father God. I recognise that while I can never be fully satisfied by this world, You generously and sufficiently provide for all my needs. Help me to develop a thankful heart for what You have provided, instead of a lust for the greener grass that is on the other side of the fence. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
You can read the verses around this Bible passage from the Internet Bible: - in English, and Spanish
Joshua Harris' book, "Not even a hint", has been admired for its boldness in promoting sexual purity. Its tack is unusual (even among Christian books) in dismissing any thought of 'making allowance for human failings'. Of course, the secular world no longer expects absolute standards, and cheerfully separates 'private life' from the responsibilities of public office. Although the press still makes sport of personal immorality among our celebrities and politicians, there is little expectation that people will be hounded out of office unless they have also scored exceptionally badly against their performance targets.
But it is God who sets the performance targets for Christians. 100% is the acceptable pass mark and anything less is not a proper standard. Interestingly, greed is tarred with the same brush as sexual immorality. The principle is the same: greed and immorality both say that what God has provided is not enough. This strikes against the heart of God Himself. To say that His provision is not enough, casts doubt on His knowledge of our needs, or on His wisdom in giving or withholding particular benefits at a particular time, or on His ability to provide for us in power.
Wherever God's people are found (at home, in church or at work), they are designed to be holy, and to be content that if God thought that He should provide anything more or better - he would. In this sin-weary world, we are certainly not back in the Garden of Eden but Satan still launches the same attacks as he did in Genesis ch3. He wants us to doubt God's Word (cf Gen 3:1), God's authority (cf Gen 3:4) and God's provision (cf Gen 3:5). It is those doubts that cause idol-like addictions to all kinds of off-limits activity. The office party does not have a bawdy image without good reason. So this Bible passage may be especially helpful as the Christmas festivities get under way.
Prayer: Father God. I recognise that while I can never be fully satisfied by this world, You generously and sufficiently provide for all my needs. Help me to develop a thankful heart for what You have provided, instead of a lust for the greener grass that is on the other side of the fence. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
Why not share Word@Work with your friends - they can subscribe at http://www.beaconlight.co.uk/email!
If you value your free Word@Work - an occasional donation will help us to maintain and develop the ministry - thank you!
If you value your free Word@Work - an occasional donation will help us to maintain and develop the ministry - thank you!
W@WEph55 | Word@Work © Dr Paul Adams 2008 | Provided by BeaconLight
Contact us at wordatwork@beaconlight.co.uk
Your next Word@Work will be sent on