Before we continue our study in the book of Ephesians, please allow me a side note. If you have read the Bible for long, you know that some parts of it are difficult to understand. Even the apostle Peter made this same observation about some of Paul’s writings (see 2 Peter 3:15-16). This, however, does not mean we should skip over those parts of the Bible or just ignore them. Our world is amazingly complex. Satan, our enemy, also known as the great deceiver, adds to that complexity. Our job is to carefully study God’s Word, ask Him to guide us, and wait to hear His voice. The Bible is filled with wonderful truth that can completely change our lives. Consider this challenge from the Bible—Proverbs 2:1-12:
- My son, if you will receive my words and treasure my commandments within you,
- Make your ear attentive to wisdom, incline your heart to understanding;
- For if you cry for discernment, lift your voice for understanding;
- If you seek her as silver and search for her as for hidden treasures;
- Then you will discern the fear of the LORD and discover the knowledge of God.
- For the LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding.
- He stores up sound wisdom for the upright; He is a shield to those who walk in integrity,
- Guarding the paths of justice, and He preserves the say of His godly ones.
- Then you will discern righteousness and justice and equity and every good course.
- For wisdom will enter your heart and knowledge will be pleasant to you soul;
- Discretion will guard you, understanding will watch over you,
- To deliver you from the way of evil, from the man who speaks perverse things”
How can we apply these words to our study of Ephesians? Or, for that matter, how can we apply these words to the study of any part of the Bible? The answer is, 1) we are to take the time to apply ourselves, 2) ask for God’s help, and 3) wait for His answers. I encourage you to read the words from Proverbs again; especially verses 1 thru 5……. There is no substitute for settling down with the Lord and His Word and letting God’s answers sink down into our hearts. Think about God’s own encouragement regarding the study of His Word.
“The law of the Lord is perfect, restoring the soul; the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple. The precepts of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes. The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring forever; the judgments of the Lord are true; they are righteous altogether. They are more desirable than gold, yes, than much fine gold; sweeter also than honey and the drippings of the honeycomb. Moreover, by them Your servant is warned; in keeping them there is great reward (Psalms 19:7-11).” I hope and pray dear readers, that each one of us, especially me, will make the time, and take the time to seek God and hear from Him each day!