Examining ourselves - Su’esu’eina i tatou lava

Scripture Focus: Efeso 4:17-32

This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that you no longer walk as the rest of the Gentiles also walk, in the futility of their mind, being darkened in their understanding, alienated from the life of God, because of the ignorance that is in them, because of the hardening of their hearts; who having become callous gave themselves up to lust, to work all uncleanness with greediness. But you did not learn Christ that way; if indeed you heard him, and were taught in him, even as truth is in Jesus: that you put away, as concerning your former way of life, the old man, that grows corrupt after the lusts of deceit; and that you be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and put on the new man, who in the likeness of God has been created in righteousness and holiness of truth. Therefore putting away falsehood, speak truth each one with his neighbor. For we are members of one another. “Be angry, and don’t sin.” Don’t let the sun go down on your wrath, neither give place to the devil. Let him who stole steal no more; but rather let him labor, working with his hands the thing that is good, that he may have something to give to him who has need. Let no corrupt speech proceed out of your mouth, but such as is good for building up as the need may be, that it may give grace to those who hear. Don’t grieve the Holy Spirit of God, in whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, outcry, and slander, be put away from you, with all malice. And be kind to one another, tender hearted, forgiving each other, just as God also in Christ forgave you.
- Ephesians 4:17-32 (WEB)

Study:

Paul contrasts the life of believers with that of unbelievers. Before encountering Christ, we walked in the “futility of our minds,” darkened by sin and separated from God. This lifestyle is characterized by callousness and unrestrained desires. However, having been taught about Christ, we are called to a new way of life - a renewal of the mind and a putting on of the “new man” created in God’s likeness. This transformation isn’t passive; it involves actively putting off old behaviors – falsehood, anger, theft, corrupt speech – and replacing them with truth, kindness, honest work, and grace-filled communication. A key point is the emphasis on not grieving the Holy Spirit, who dwells within us as a seal of our redemption. This verse highlights the necessity of self-examination and the ongoing process of sanctification.

Application:

This passage challenges us to constantly examine our lives and ask ourselves if we are truly living differently from the world. It’s easy to slip back into old patterns of thought and behavior. Today, we are called to a life of intentionality, actively choosing to live according to the principles outlined in this passage. This looks like being honest in our relationships, managing our anger constructively, seeking honest work, and speaking words that build others up. It's also about being sensitive to the promptings of the Holy Spirit and recognizing when our actions might grieve Him. This isn’t about perfection, but about striving to align our lives more closely with Christ.

Reflection Questions:

• What “old patterns” am I still struggling to overcome?
• How can I be more intentional about speaking truth in my relationships?
• Am I careful to not let anger control my reactions?
• In what ways might I be grieving the Holy Spirit through my actions or words?
• How can I be more proactive in showing kindness and forgiveness to others?

Prayer:

Lord, forgive me for the times I have walked in the futility of my mind and succumbed to sinful desires. Help me to continually examine my life, to put off the old man, and to put on the new man in righteousness and truth. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit and guide me to live in a way that honors You and reflects Your love to others. Amen.

Tags: Ephesians, Christian Life, Transformation, Sanctification, Holy Spirit, Forgiveness, Truth, Renewal, Self-Examination, Walking with Jesus