Identity in Christ // Ephesians 4:2

There has been a lot of cultural talk over the past years about how one identifies oneself. Some feel that a person should be able to take on any identity whatsoever, even if it isn’t living, let alone being human. Life for the Jesus follower cannot be so arbitrary. Sain Paul wrote Ephesians to help the church understand the believer’s identity in Christ and how that should shape their life not just as individuals, but also as part of a community. Ephesians 4:2, urges believers to live “with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love.” These qualities aren’t optional, because they are the natural overflow of a heart shaped by Christ. As we look toward Christmas, we remember that Jesus embodied every one of these traits when He entered our world in vulnerability and grace. The humility of the manger becomes both our model and our motivation for how we treat one another with significance, simplicity. Will you choose a relationship today where you can intentionally slow down, listen, or extend grace in a way that reflects the humility of Christ? Do that and allow your shared identity in Jesus to empower you to practice humility, gentleness, or patience as you move through this Christmas season!