August 31 - Ephesians 6:10-20 Suit Up! Stand Up!

 

Part 7:  Read Ephesians 6:10-20

August 30 - Ephesians 6:1-9 - Honour in Relationships

👋 Greetings!

Sisters, it’s a joy to continue this journey with you. 💖 Each day together has been a reminder that transformation happens one step at a time as we walk in God’s love.

On Day 1, we learned to walk in love.
On Day 2, we were called to walk as children of light.
On Day 3, we discovered how to walk in wisdom.
On Day 4, we reflected on mutual submission in relationships and marriage.

Now, in Part 5, Paul reminds us that love must shape every role we live in — whether honoring parents (alive or remembered), living as grown children of God, guiding or nurturing as parents ourselves, serving faithfully in our work, or leading with humility. In every setting, we are called to submit in love out of reverence for Christ.

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📖 Scripture Reading (NLT)

Ephesians 6:1–9

1 Children, obey your parents because you belong to the Lord, for this is the right thing to do.

2 “Honor your father and mother.” This is the first commandment with a promise:

3 If you honor your father and mother, “things will go well for you, and you will have a long life on the earth.”

4 Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them. Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.

5 Slaves, obey your earthly masters with deep respect and fear. Serve them sincerely as you would serve Christ.

6 Try to please them all the time, not just when they are watching you. As slaves of Christ, do the will of God with all your heart.

7 Work with enthusiasm, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people.

8 Remember that the Lord will reward each one of us for the good we do, whether we are slaves or free.

9 Masters, treat your slaves in the same way. Don’t threaten them; remember, you both have the same Master in heaven, and he has no favorites.

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🌱 Loved to Love: Lessons for Each Temperament

🔴 Choleric (Bold, Driven)

1. Honor parents with humility — strength is shown in respect, not control (Eph. 6:2).

2. As employees, work with sincerity, not ambition (Col. 3:23).

3. As leaders, guide with fairness, not threats (Eph. 6:9).

🟡 Sanguine (Joyful, Outgoing)

1. Honor parents with consistency, not just cheerful words (Col. 3:20).

2. As employees, serve sincerely even when unseen (Eph. 6:6).

3. As leaders, inspire through encouragement, not flattery (Prov. 27:17).

🔵 Melancholic (Thoughtful, Analytical)

1. Honor parents by remembering with gratitude, not criticism (Phil. 4:8).

2. As employees, work with excellence as unto the Lord (Col. 3:23).

3. As leaders, practice fairness over perfectionism (Eph. 6:9).

🟢 Phlegmatic (Peaceful, Easygoing)

1. Honor parents by active presence, not quiet avoidance (Prov. 23:22).

2. As employees, serve faithfully, not passively (Eph. 6:5–6).

3. As leaders, use gentleness to guide, not neglect (Prov. 27:23).

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➡️ Encourage each other:
Choose one lesson from your temperament that resonates most with you and share it in the comments.

Then add this:
🌸 Have you reached out to a sister who hasn’t posted lately? A kind word from you could be the encouragement she needs to rejoin.

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🔥 Conclusion & Encouragement for the Day

Paul makes it clear: love isn’t limited to church or marriage — it must transform the way we honor our parents, respect our families, serve in our work, and lead others. In every role, love is expressed through humility, sincerity, and respect.

This passage reminds us that love submits not out of weakness but out of reverence for Christ. Wherever we are — as children, parents, employees, or leaders — we are called to live differently, showing honor as a testimony of Christ’s love in us.

August 29 - Mutual Submission & Marriage - - Ephesians 5:21–33

 

💖 Loved to Love – Part 4

Theme: Mutual Submission & Marriage (Ephesians 5:21–33)

📖 “You shall love your neighbour as yourself.” — Mark 12:31

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👋 Greetings

“Sisters, what a blessing it is to walk through Ephesians together with you — each day has been a step deeper into God’s love.” 

• On Day 1, we learned to walk in love.
  
• On Day 2, we were called to walk as children of light.
  
• On Day 3, we discovered how to walk in wisdom.

Now, in Part 4, Paul turns our attention to relationships — especially marriage. Whether single, formerly married, or married, the principle remains the same: love is humble, sacrificial, and patterned after Christ’s love for the Church.

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📖 Scripture Reading (NLT)

Ephesians 5:21–33
21 And further, submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.
22 For wives, this means submit to your husbands as to the Lord.
23 For a husband is the head of his wife as Christ is the head of the church. He is the Savior of his body, the church.
24 As the church submits to Christ, so you wives should submit to your husbands in everything.
25 For husbands, this means love your wives, just as Christ loved the church. He gave up his life for her
26 to make her holy and clean, washed by the cleansing of God’s word.
27 He did this to present her to himself as a glorious church without a spot or wrinkle or any other blemish. Instead, she will be holy and without fault.
28 In the same way, husbands ought to love their wives as they love their own bodies. For a man who loves his wife actually shows love for himself.
29 No one hates his own body but feeds and cares for it, just as Christ cares for the church.
30 And we are members of his body.
31 As the Scriptures say, “A man leaves his father and mother and is joined to his wife, and the two are united into one.”
32 This is a great mystery, but it is an illustration of the way Christ and the church are one.
33 So again I say, each man must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband.

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🌱 Loved to Love: Lessons for Singles

🔴 Choleric Single

1. Leadership in relationships means serving, not controlling (v.21).

2. Learn to honor others before seeking recognition (v.33).

3. Practice sacrificial love now — it prepares you for every season (v.25).

🟡 Sanguine Single

1. Submission means listening as much as speaking (v.21).

2. Respect deepens friendships and community ties (v.33).

3. Consistency in love matters more than bursts of charm (v.25).

🔵 Melancholic Single

1. Grace matters more than perfection in relationships (v.26).

2. Respect is an act of trust, not fear (v.21).

3. Love should purify your words and actions, not criticize (v.26–27).

🟢 Phlegmatic Single

1. Submission is active, not passive (v.21).

2. Love means stepping forward, not avoiding (v.25).

3. Respect shows up in faithful daily choices (v.33).

➡️ Question for Singles: Which one of these three lessons resonates with you most? Share your answer in the comments.

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🌱 Loved to Love: Lessons for Formerly Married

🔴 Choleric Formerly Married

1. Strength is shown in humility, not control (v.21).

2. Love restores when it sacrifices self (v.25).

3. Respect begins with how you treat others now, not the past (v.33).

🟡 Sanguine Formerly Married

1. Joy must be rooted in Christ’s sacrificial love (v.25).

2. Respect builds new beginnings (v.33).

3. Encouragement is a gift you still carry for others (v.29).

🔵 Melancholic Formerly Married

1. Grace covers your story — holiness flows from Christ (v.26–27).

2. Respect keeps your heart soft, not bitter (v.33).

3. Love heals when expressed with gentleness (v.29).

🟢 Phlegmatic Formerly Married

1. Submission means engaging, not withdrawing (v.21).

2. Love brings calm courage, not silence (v.25).

3. Respect keeps relationships steady even in new seasons (v.33).

➡️ Question for Formerly Married: Which one of these three lessons resonates with you most? Share your answer in the comments.

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🌱 Loved to Love: Lessons for Married

🔴 Choleric Married

1. Leadership is expressed through sacrifice (v.25).

2. Gentleness builds unity more than force (v.28–29).

3. Respect flows from humility, not intimidation (v.23).

🟡 Sanguine Married

1. Marriage is holy — not casual or lighthearted (v.31).

2. Love must remain steady, not just enthusiastic (v.25).

3. Encouragement sustains your spouse (v.29).

🔵 Melancholic Married

1. Holiness grows through love, not criticism (v.26–27).

2. Respect brings balance to high expectations (v.33).

3. Grace is essential in daily partnership (v.27).

🟢 Phlegmatic Married

1. Submission is active, not silence (v.21).

2. Love requires initiative, not avoidance (v.25).

3. Respect builds unity one steady choice at a time (v.33).

➡️ Question for Married: Which one of these three lessons resonates with you most? Share your answer in the comments.

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🔥 Encouragement for the Day

Marriage and relationships are a reflection of Christ and His Church. Whether you are single, formerly married, or married, the call is the same: to love humbly, to respect faithfully, and to live sacrificially. In doing so, we live out the mystery of the gospel — that we are deeply loved and called to love in return.

💖 Come back for Loved to Love – Part 5: Honor in Relationships (Ephesians 6:1–9).

August 28 - Walk in Wisdom - Ephesians 5:15-20

Thank you, sisters, for the way you’ve been leaning in this week. 💖

On Day 1, we were reminded to walk in love like Christ who gave Himself for us.
On Day 2, we learned to walk as children of light, shining truth and goodness into every relationship.

Today, in Part 3, Paul calls us to walk in wisdom. Love that pleases God is not careless or thoughtless — it is intentional, Spirit-filled, and full of gratitude. Wisdom is love’s anchor, keeping us steady in how we treat others and how we redeem the time God has given us.

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📖 Scripture Reading (NLT) Ephesians 5:15–20

• 15 So be careful how you live. Don’t live like fools, but like those who are wise.
• 16 Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days.
• 17 Don’t act thoughtlessly, but understand what the Lord wants you to do.
• 18 Don’t be drunk with wine, because that will ruin your life. Instead, be filled with the Holy Spirit,
• 19 singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs among yourselves, and making music to the Lord in your hearts.
• 20 And give thanks for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

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🌱 Loved to Love: Lessons for Each Temperament

(Ephesians 5:15–20)

🔴 Choleric (Bold, Driven)

1. Love requires wisdom, not just drive (v.15).

2. Be intentional with time — don’t waste opportunities (v.16).

3. Seek the Lord’s will before charging ahead (v.17).

4. Don’t be controlled by ambition, but by the Spirit (v.18).

5. Leadership should bring joy, not pressure (v.19).

6. Gratitude should temper your boldness (v.20).

7. True influence flows from Spirit-filled living (v.18).

🟡 Sanguine (Joyful, Outgoing)

1. Wisdom means loving beyond impulse (v.15).

2. Use opportunities to encourage, not distract (v.16).

3. Be thoughtful, not careless, in your words and actions (v.17).

4. Don’t be ruled by moods or pleasures, but by the Spirit (v.18).

5. Use music and joy to build up others (v.19).

6. Gratitude should keep your joy rooted (v.20).

7. Love shines brighter when it is Spirit-led, not self-led (v.18).

🔵 Melancholic (Thoughtful, Analytical)

1. Wisdom calls you to balance thought with action (v.15).

2. Avoid wasting time in worry or hesitation (v.16).

3. Love means understanding God’s will, not overanalyzing (v.17).

4. Don’t be consumed by burdens, but filled with the Spirit (v.18).

5. Music and worship can lift heaviness (v.19).

6. Gratitude keeps criticism from choking love (v.20).

7. Wisdom is expressed through Spirit-filled encouragement (v.19–20).

🟢 Phlegmatic (Peaceful, Easygoing)

1. Wisdom means intentional living, not drifting (v.15).

2. Don’t waste time in complacency — love acts (v.16).

3. Know and do the Lord’s will, not just avoid conflict (v.17).

4. Be filled with the Spirit, not passivity (v.18).

5. Share in joyful worship with others (v.19).

6. Gratitude keeps love alive in quiet hearts (v.20).

7. True peace comes from Spirit-filled wisdom (v.18).

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➡️ Encourage each other:
Choose one lesson and share it in the comments as encouragement to your sisters who share your primary temperament.

Example:
“I am Choleric so I will share with a fellow Choleric: Be intentional with time — don’t waste opportunities (v.16).”

Then add this:
Did you encourage a sister on your team to post yesterday? Post “Yes” or “No” in the comments after your answer.

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🔥 Encouragement for the Day

Wisdom keeps love steady. Without wisdom, love can be reckless, careless, or stagnant. But when filled with the Spirit, our love becomes purposeful, joyful, and rooted in gratitude. Today, let your wisdom show your neighbour the way of Christ’s love.

💖 Come back for Loved to Love – Part 4: Mutual Submission & Marriage (Ephesians 5:21–33).

August 27 - Walk as Children of Light - Ephesians 5:8-14

💖 Loved to Love – Part 2

Theme: Walk as Children of Light (Ephesians 5:8–14)

📖 “You shall love your neighbour as yourself.” 
— Mark 12:31

August 26 - Walk in Love -Ephesians 5:1-7

Welcome! 

Thank you for participating in last week’s study.
I trust you will continue to press on in the Word—studying diligently by observing, interpreting, and applying Scripture. Remember, it is not enough to simply hear; transformation comes as we live out what God has revealed (James 1:22–25).

Keep your heart open, your mind engaged, and your life surrendered to the Spirit as you walk in obedience to His truth.

 

We begin our last week of study through Ephesians (5–6) under the theme: “Loved to Love.”

We are loved first by God — deeply, sacrificially, unconditionally. Because of this, Paul calls us to a higher way of living: to imitate God and walk in love. The command in Mark 12:31 to love your neighbor as yourself comes alive here in Paul’s teaching.

Each day we’ll study a passage, draw out lessons for every temperament, and end with encouragement to live as those who are Loved to Love.

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📖 Scripture Reading (NLT)

Ephesians 5:1–7

1 “Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear children.

2 Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ. He loved us and offered himself as a sacrifice for us, a pleasing aroma to God.

3 Let there be no sexual immorality, impurity, or greed among you. Such sins have no place among God’s people.

4 Obscene stories, foolish talk, and coarse jokes—these are not for you. Instead, let there be thankfulness to God.

5 You can be sure that no immoral, impure, or greedy person will inherit the Kingdom of Christ and of God.

6 For a greedy person is an idolater, worshiping the things of this world. Don’t be fooled by those who try to excuse these sins, for the anger of God will fall on all who disobey him.

7 Don’t participate in the things these people do.”

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🌱 Loved to Love: Lessons for Each Temperament (Ephesians 5:1–7)

🔴 Choleric (Bold, Driven)

1. Love is not domination but imitation of Christ (v.1).

2. True strength sacrifices self for others (v.2).

3. Pride and greed ruin relationships (v.3, 5).

4. Leadership without gentleness is loveless (v.4).

5. Love refuses manipulation or control (v.6).

6. Pursue gratitude instead of demands (v.4).

7. Walk in love, not power games (v.2).

🟡 Sanguine (Joyful, Outgoing)

1. Love is action, not just words (v.2).

2. Foolish talk and jokes don’t reflect Christ’s love (v.4).

3. Gratitude builds others up (v.4).

4. Dependability is love in practice (v.3).

5. Joy should flow from holiness (v.5).

6. Love shines when attention is sincere (v.2).

7. Be consistent in love, not careless (v.6).

🔵 Melancholic (Thoughtful, Analytical)

1. Love flows from grace, not perfectionism (v.1).

2. Christ’s sacrifice shows love beyond fault-finding (v.2).

3. Bitterness and greed choke love (v.3, 5).

4. Thankfulness softens critical hearts (v.4).

5. Love is forgiving, not condemning (v.6).

6. Holiness protects love from impurity (v.3).

7. Rest in God’s love before giving it away (v.1–2).

🟢 Phlegmatic (Peaceful, Easygoing)

1. Love requires action, not passivity (v.1).

2. Silence toward sin is not love (v.7).

3. Gratitude is an active form of love (v.4).

4. Peace at all costs is not love; truth matters (v.6).

5. Gentle truth is part of love (v.4).

6. Neutrality in impurity is dangerous (v.3, 7).

7. Calm presence should shelter others, not avoid responsibility (v.2).

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➡️ Share your takeaway in the comments:
Under the lessons for your primary and secondary temperaments, which one lesson stood out to you most?

Practice

 

August 24 Thinksgiving – Reflecting & Thanking Together |🔒 Sealing – Prayer of Commitment

💭🙏 "Thinksgiving" – Reflecting & Thanking Together

Pastor Arp:
“Sisters, before we close, we’re going to combine two things — thinking about what we’ve learned and thanking God for it. We’ll call this time Thinksgiving. We’re going to look into the mirror of God’s Word, see where we are, use the map of His truth to know where we’re going, and then thank Him for every step He’s leading us to take.”

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Part 1 – Mirror & Map (Thinking)

Pastor Arp:
“Let’s start with the mirror. I’ll read a question, you jot your answer in your journal. After a moment, I’ll invite a few to share aloud.”

1. What “old garment” do I still see hanging in my spiritual closet?

   • Debbie: “Holding grudges.”

2. Where in my life am I most tempted to slip back into old ways?

   • Tessie: “When I’m around negative people.”

3. Which verse today spoke most directly to me?

   • Hazel: “Verse 29 — about the words I speak.”

Pastor Arp:
“Now for the map — where we’re going.”

4. Which “new garment” do I need to put on first this week?

   • Maria: “Compassion.”

5. What’s one small action I can take in the next 24 hours to live this truth?

   • Cindy: “Send a kind message to someone I’ve avoided.”

6. Who needs to see Christ’s love through me right now?

   • Ann C.: “My struggling co-worker.”

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Part 2 – Gratitude Response (Thanking)

Pastor Arp:
“Now let’s respond in gratitude. I’ll call out themes from today’s passage. If one hits home for you, speak a one-sentence thank you to God.”

1. Truth replacing lies

   • Alanda: “Thank You, Lord, for freeing me to speak the truth.”

2. Peace replacing anger

   • Theresa: “Thank You for helping me let go quickly.”

3. Generosity replacing selfishness

   • Debra: “Thank You for the joy that comes when I give.”

4. Encouragement replacing corrupt talk

   • Gale: “Thank You for showing me how my words can heal.”

5. Forgiveness replacing bitterness

   • Glenda: “Thank You for the freedom forgiveness brings.”

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Closing Charge

Pastor Arp:
“Take one of your map answers and carry it into this week. Let it guide your steps. And each time you act on it, pause and thank God — that’s living in Thinksgiving all week long.”

August 23 - P- Practice. “From Knowing to Doing”

    
“From Knowing to Doing”

Pastor Arp:
“Sisters, we’ve observed the text — we’ve asked our 5 W’s and H. We’ve uncovered the meaning — we’ve dug into the Greek words, the context, and the heart of what Paul was saying. But now comes the step that changes everything: practice.

The Word of God isn’t meant to stay on the page or in our notes. It’s meant to shape the way we speak, think, and act every day. James 1:22 reminds us, ‘Be doers of the Word, and not hearers only.’

So today, we’re going to make this practical — and we’ll do it together. Think of this as walking into your spiritual closet. On one side are the ‘old garments’ Paul says to take off. On the other side are the ‘new garments’ Christ calls us to put on. Our job? Decide what we’re taking off and what we’re putting on — and then actually wear it this week.

Let’s step into that closet together right now.”

🛠 Practice – “Closet Exchange” Interactive Session

Pastor Arp:
“Alright, sisters, Paul uses the image of clothing — taking off the old and putting on the new. We’re going to step into God’s wardrobe room together.

Open your journals. Draw two columns:

• Column 1 – Old Garments (what to take off)

• Column 2 – New Garments (what to put on)

I’ll name something from the passage. You’ll write it in both columns, then we’ll have a couple of you share what that might look like in real life.”

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Pastor Arp:
“First one — verse 25:

• Old: Lying

• New: Speaking truth

Gale, can you give an example of what ‘putting on truth’ might look like in your life?”

Gale:
“It might be admitting when I’ve made a mistake at work instead of covering it up.”

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Pastor Arp:
“Good. Next — verse 26:

• Old: Uncontrolled anger

• New: Quick reconciliation

Theresa, what could ‘quick reconciliation’ look like for you?”

Theresa:
“Talking to the person the same day instead of letting it fester for a week.”

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Pastor Arp:
“Verse 28:

• Old: Stealing or selfish gain

• New: Honest work & generosity

Debbie, your thoughts?”

Debbie:
“Offering to help someone fix something without charging them, even if I could.”

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Pastor Arp:
“Verse 29:

• Old: Corrupt talk

• New: Words that build

Ann C., what’s one example of that swap?”

Ann C.:
“Choosing to speak encouragement when I feel like complaining about someone.”

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Pastor Arp:
“And finally — vv. 31–32:

• Old: Bitterness, wrath, malice

• New: Kindness, compassion, forgiveness

Maria, what does this look like in action?”

Maria:
“Letting go of an old hurt without bringing it up again every time I see the person.”

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Interactive YES / NO / SOMETIMES Sharing

Pastor Arp:
“Now, I’m going to ask some questions. When you answer, start with ‘Yes,’ ‘No,’ or ‘Sometimes’ — then finish with a full sentence. Who’s first?”

1. Do I usually resolve anger before the day ends?

   • Cindy: “Sometimes, I do, but I have nights when I let it spill into the next day.”

2. Do my words consistently build others up?

   • Tessie: “No, not always — I catch myself being sarcastic sometimes.”

3. Do I forgive quickly?

   • Alanda: “Yes, I try to forgive the same day because I don’t like the heaviness it brings.”

4. Do I look for ways to give generously?

   • Debra: “Sometimes, I’m generous when I plan for it, but I want to be more spontaneous.”

5. Do I avoid choices that grieve the Holy Spirit?

   • Jesmyn: “Yes, I’m more aware of my words and attitudes now.”

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Pastor Arp (Closing Practice):
“This week, I want each of you to choose one old garment you’ll take off and one new garment you’ll put on. Write it on a card, keep it where you’ll see it, and pray over it daily. Next time, we’ll share what happened when you dressed in Christ’s character.”

August 21 - Ephesians 4:17-32 M

M – 🧠 Meaning 

Pastor Arp:
“Sisters, we’ve just observed the text — asking Who? What? When? Where? Why? and How? from the passage. That’s our foundation. Now we move into meaning — what these words meant to Paul’s original audience, and what they mean for us today.

We’ll start with Paul’s three big commands — put off, be renewed, put on — then I’ll have you share the word studies you looked up using Blue Letter Bible or Bible Hub. Tell us the meaning and the source. And yes, I’m going to call on you by name.”

August 19 and 20 - Ephesians 4:17-32 - PRO

PROMPTS Devotional – Ephesians 4:17–32

Theme: Put Off the Old, Put On the New

Intro – Setting & Aim

The late-afternoon sun spills through the church windows. Bibles are open; notebooks ready. The sisters sit in temperament circles, a quiet expectancy in the room. Pastor Arp steps forward with a gentle smile:

“Welcome back, Wisdom Seekers. Today we continue in Ephesians 4:17–32. Paul moves from doctrine to daily living—what to take off, how to be renewed, and what to put on. We’ll observe carefully, then seek meaning—and finally practice it together. Ask your questions. Engage your hearts. Let the Spirit shape us into Christ’s likeness.”

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P – 🙏 Prayer

Lord, You have called us out of darkness into Your marvelous light. Today, teach us to truly put off the old ways, be renewed in our thinking, and put on the new self that reflects Your holiness. Let our lives become living testimonies of Your grace. Amen.

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R – 📖 Read

Read Ephesians 4:17–32 (NASB & NLT). Paul urges believers not to live like the Gentiles in the futility of their minds, but to be renewed in the spirit of their minds and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.

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O – 🔎 Observe (5 W’s & H – Group Conversation with Scripture References)

Pastor Arp: “Let’s ask the text our observation questions. Answer with what you see.”

Who is Paul speaking to, and who is he warning them not to imitate?

• Debbie: To the believers in Ephesus—and to us (v. 17).

• Jesmyn: He says not to live like the Gentiles—unbelievers—whose thinking is futile and whose understanding is darkened, separated from God (vv. 17–18).

What should we put off and what should we put on?

• Alanda: Put off lying (v. 25), uncontrolled anger (v. 26), stealing (v. 28), corrupt talk (v. 29), bitterness, wrath, anger, clamour, slander, malice (v. 31).

• Hazel: Put on truthfulness (v. 25), resolve anger quickly (v. 26), honest work and generosity (v. 28), words that build up (v. 29), kindness, compassion, forgiveness (v. 32).

When do these changes happen?

• Ann C.: It begins at salvation but continues daily—“be renewed in the spirit of your mind” is ongoing (v. 23).

• Laura: “Put on the new self” (v. 24) is a daily choice.

Where do I still see the old self?

• Glenda: My speech—too quick at times (v. 29).

• Maria: I sometimes hold onto offenses (v. 32).

Why both remove and replace?

• Deborah W.: If you only stop a sin but don’t replace it, it returns (vv. 22, 24).

• Michelle: God wants us to reflect His Righteousness and Holiness - R&H - (v. 24), not just be less sinful. 

How can we live this out?

• Alynthia: Tell the truth (v. 25).

• Anne A.: Work honestly and share (v. 28).

• Theresa: Settle anger; don’t give the devil a foothold (vv. 26–27).

• Claudia: Use words that build up (v. 29).
  

Pastor Arp: “What a rich discussion! We’ve seen together that Paul’s call in Ephesians 4 is both challenging and hopeful—putting off the old ways that no longer belong to us and putting on the new life that reflects Christ. These observations remind us that transformation isn’t just about what we stop doing but about what we start doing in His strength.”

Well, that’s it for this lesson. We’ll continue with the M (Meaning) the next time we meet.

👉 Wisdom Seekers Response Time ✨

Go Light: Answer one of the questions below.
Go Deep: Answer two or more of the questions below.

1. Which verse from today’s observation do you want to carry with you this week?

2. If you had to sum up today’s lesson in one word, what would it be?

3. What is one “put off” or “put on” from the list that stood out to you?

4. Did you connect more with the challenge of putting things off… or with the hope of putting on the new self?

5. What truth from today’s text encouraged you most?

💬 Please post your answers on Wednesday—we can’t wait to hear what spoke to you, and your insight could be the very encouragement someone else needs!

The next post will be on Thursday, God willing—so don’t miss it!

August 17 - Ephesians 4:1–16 – T & S PROMPTS Responses

Good Day! 

💬 Before we begin: I hope you enjoyed this week’s study with Pastor Arp. He will be continuing with us next week as we explore Ephesians 4:17–32 together.

AUGUST 14 - DAY 2 - WEEK 4 GO DEEP RESPONSES

DAY 2 - WEEK 4 RESPONSES

🌅 WELCOME BACK – Pastor Arp's Warm Return

Standing near the front, hands folded with his bible open, pastor arp speaks in his gentle yet intentional tone, scanning the group with affection.

“Welcome back, my sisters. I trust you’ve had moments to sit with the word—quietly, consistently. I know life can be full and demanding, but when we press into scripture with intention, god meets us right where we are.

Yesterday, Paul called us to walk worthy of our calling. Today, we’ll take a deeper step into what that truly means—looking at the heart of the text and stepping into real-life scenarios that help us see how to live it out. 

Let’s slow down, listen well, and let the spirit speak—not just to our minds, but to our hearts and daily habits.”

🧠 M – MEANING: DIGGING INTO THE TEXT
&
🛠 P - PRACTICE - APPLYING IT TO YOUR LIFE

Pastor Arp walks to the whiteboard and writes five key phrases:

1. “Walk worthy of your calling” (v. 1)

2. “Bearing with one another in love” (v. 2)

3. “Unity of the Spirit” (v. 3)

4. “Speaking the truth in love” (v. 15)

5. “Grow up into Christ” (v. 13)

He  then turns back to the group:

“These aren’t vague spiritual ideas. They are deeply practical, but they also require transformation. 

Let's read Ephesians 4 before we unpack these phrases.”

1️⃣ “Walk worthy of your calling”
– Ephesians 4:1

📘 Greek Word: Axios

Meaning: Properly balanced, having equal weight.

To walk worthy means to live a life that is in balance with the high calling God has placed on us—not one that contradicts or cheapens it.

Pastor Arp:

“This isn’t a performance, sisters—it’s about integrity. Does your walk carry the weight of your calling?”

💬 Reflections:

• Gale (Chol/Mel): “That balance challenges me. I tend to push forward in my strengths, but I’m learning that character has to match calling.”

• Debbie (San/Chol): “I want my joy and friendliness to reflect Christ—not just my personality.”

• Alanda (Mel/Phleg): “That word ‘worthy’ made me pause. I’ve struggled to feel worthy at all. But this reminds me—it’s not about my worth. It’s His.”

• Hazel (Mel/San): “It reminded me that worth is tied to obedience, not my feelings. I need to lean into that.”

• Ann C. (Phleg/Mel): “Walking worthy for me means showing up even when I feel unseen.”

---

🛠 Practice Scenario:

Prompt: You’ve been asked to lead a ministry task with someone who works differently than you—slower, less precise, or with a different personality style. How do you “walk worthy” in that moment?

Gale: “I’d want to get the job done quickly, but I’ll remind myself—this is not about efficiency alone. I must also leave room for the Spirit’s work in them.”

Debbie: “I can keep my friendliness, but also focus on gently encouraging excellence without making them feel rushed or inferior.”

Alanda: “I’ll keep telling myself my worth—and theirs—is rooted in Christ, not performance.”

Hazel: “For me, walking worthy means obeying even when my feelings say I can’t.”

Ann C.: “Even if no one notices my part, I’ll show up and do it with a whole heart.”

Pastor Arp’s Direction:

“Your calling is not proven by how much you do, but by how you do it—consistent with the Spirit’s character.”

---

2️⃣ “Bearing with one another in love” – Ephesians 4:2

📘 Greek Word: Anechomai

Meaning: To endure patiently; to hold oneself up; to put up with.

It’s not just tolerating—it’s staying with someone in love, even in difficulty.

Pastor Arp:

“Bearing doesn’t mean enabling. It means staying present in love—even when others are difficult.”

💬 Reflections:

• Jacintha (Phleg/Mel): “That’s hard. I usually just pull away quietly when people are difficult. But love stays.”

• Cassandra (San/Chol): “This convicted me. I get loud when frustrated. But God’s calling me to bear, not blare.”

• Theresa (Mel/Chol): “I realized I can stay physically—but emotionally, I leave. The Spirit’s working on that.”

• Laura (Mel/Phleg): “I avoid people who drain me. This verse calls me to lean in with love.”

• Anne A. (Phleg/Mel): “Bearing in love means I can’t keep avoiding awkward conversations.”

---

🛠 Practice Scenario:

Prompt: You’re paired with a sister in ministry who frequently talks over you or ignores your ideas. How will you bear with her in love without disengaging or becoming bitter?

Jacintha: “Instead of quietly disappearing, I’ll speak once and then follow up with her later in private, kindly.”

Cassandra: “I’ll lower my voice instead of raising it when I’m frustrated, and keep my body language open.”

Theresa: “I’ll keep my heart present, not just my body, and ask the Spirit to help me stay engaged.”

Laura: “I’ll give her my full attention instead of silently wishing I was elsewhere.”

Anne A.: “I’ll choose a time to talk about it with her in peace, instead of letting it build up.”

Pastor Arp’s Direction:

“Bearing with one another is active love. It’s not passively staying—it’s intentionally choosing connection.”

---

3️⃣ “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit” – Ephesians 4:3

📘 Greek Phrase: Spoudazō tērein

Meaning: To labor earnestly to guard or protect.

Unity is Spirit-given; we must guard it.

Pastor Arp:

“Unity is fragile, sisters. And we each carry a weapon—or a tool—in our temperament. Will you protect unity or pierce it?”

💬 Reflections:

• Melanie (Mel/Phleg): “I keep quiet, thinking I’m helping unity—but silence isn’t always peace. Sometimes it’s neglect.”

• Maria (Phleg/Chol): “That word guard stood out. Guarding unity sometimes means having hard conversations.”

• Debra (Chol/San): “Unity used to feel like ‘don’t rock the boat.’ Now I see it means actively rowing together.”

• Jesmyn (Mel/Phleg): “Guarding unity means stepping in when division starts—not watching from the sidelines.”

• Glenda (Mel/Chol): “My words can either seal unity or split it. That’s sobering.”

---

🛠 Practice Scenario:

Prompt: You notice a few sisters in your group exchanging negative comments about another leader. What do you do to guard unity?

Melanie: “I’ll gently steer the conversation toward prayer or encouragement, instead of letting it slide.”

Maria: “I’ll pull them aside privately and ask, ‘Is this building unity—or breaking it down?’”

Debra: “I’ll row alongside them by addressing the concern, but redirecting the energy to a group solution.”

Jesmyn: “If it’s in my hearing, I’ll speak up kindly and remind them of our shared mission.”

Glenda: “Before I speak, I’ll ask—will this comment seal the crack, or widen it?”

Pastor Arp’s Direction:

“Unity is guarded one choice at a time—by turning gossip into grace and criticism into prayer.”

---

4️⃣ “Speaking the truth in love” – Ephesians 4:15

📘 Greek Word: Aletheuō

Meaning: To truth it; to live out truth in speech and action.

Pastor Arp:

“Truth is not a hammer. It’s a scalpel. Use it with precision—and love.”

💬 Reflections:

• Debra (Chol/San): “Ouch. I’ve used truth to dominate. The Holy Spirit is softening that.”

• Glenda (Mel/Chol): “I tend to say what’s right—but not always at the right time or tone. Truth must be timely too.”

• Alison (San/Chol): “I avoid hard truth because I don’t want to hurt feelings. But that’s not love either.”

• Trudy (Mel/Phleg): “Silence in the name of love can be just as damaging as harsh truth.”

• Alynthia (Mel/Phleg): “I check my motive before I speak—am I building or breaking?”

---

🛠 Practice Scenario:

Prompt: You see a sister making a repeated choice that’s damaging her witness. How do you speak the truth in love without alienating her?

Debra: “I’ll speak privately and start with what I appreciate about her, then address the concern clearly.”

Glenda: “I’ll wait until my tone is right—then speak directly but gently.”

Alison: “I’ll pray first for courage, then frame it as concern for her walk with Christ.”

Trudy: “I’ll say something now instead of assuming someone else will.”

Alynthia: “I’ll remind myself my motive is love, not winning an argument.”

Pastor Arp’s Direction:

“Truth spoken in love heals—truth without love wounds, and love without truth withholds healing.”

---

5️⃣ “Grow up into Christ” – Ephesians 4:13, 15

📘 Greek Word: Auxanō

Meaning: To increase, to become greater.

Pastor Arp:

“Spiritual growth isn’t just reading more Scripture. It’s becoming more like Jesus.”

💬 Reflections:

• Michelle (Mel/Phleg): “This freed me. Growth isn’t comparison—it’s transformation.”

• Claudia (Phleg/Mel): “I may be quiet, but I’m growing. That verse told me I don’t need to be loud to mature.”

• Tessie (Chol/Mel): “I’ve grown in leadership, but not always in gentleness.”

• Cindy (Mel/Chol): “Growing up into Christ means letting go of perfectionism and embracing grace.”

• Deborah W. (Mel/Phleg): “For me, growth is learning to forgive faster and love deeper.”

---

🛠 Practice Scenario:

Prompt: You realize your spiritual growth has been mostly private. How can you share it to strengthen others without boasting?

Michelle: “I’ll share lessons learned in small group and let God get the credit.”

Claudia: “I’ll encourage someone personally instead of keeping my encouragement inside.”

Tessie: “I’ll show gentleness in leadership moments where I’d normally be strict.”

Cindy: “I’ll model grace by admitting when I’m wrong.”

Deborah W.: “I’ll tell my testimony to remind others of God’s power.”

Pastor Arp’s Direction:

“Growth that stays hidden is incomplete—Christ grows us so we can help others grow.”

✨ FINAL THOUGHT – Pastor Arp’s Closing Reflection

Pastor Arp’s eyes scanned the circle one last time, the quiet in the room carrying a weight of reflection.
He leaned in slightly, voice low but steady:

“Sisters, this chapter is more than instructions—it’s a living call to unity. Each Greek word we explored today paints a picture of a body that works together, not apart. Growth happens when we lean in, not when we pull away. We have to ask ourselves:  

Am I really living worthy of my calling, or am I coasting in comfort?”

Heads nodded around the room—some slowly, in thought, others quickly, in agreement.

Debbie smiled faintly, “It’s like the Spirit is drawing us into the ‘we’ instead of just the ‘me.’”

Pastor Arp concluded,

“Let’s not just hear this truth. Let’s live it. Let’s carry these words into our homes, our friendships, and even into the moments when it’s easier to withdraw. The Spirit is ready to empower us—our part is to say yes.”

---

Growing Together in Christ

1. Revisiting the Call

• Read Ephesians 4:15–16 again.

• Ask yourself: “Am I helping the body grow—or just growing in isolation?”

• Share one specific way you can intentionally contribute to the growth of someone else in your church family this week.

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2. Deep Dive into the Greek Words

Reflect on the five Greek words we explored today. Choose the one that spoke to your heart the most and answer:

• Why do I think the Spirit drew my attention to this word?

• How would my relationships change if I lived this out daily?
  (Tip: Be honest about the challenges as well as the benefits.)

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3. Responding to Real-Life Scenarios

From the discussion, think about the scenario that caught your attention most.

• What about it stood out to me—was it the person’s humility, patience, or courage to speak truth in love?

• How could I apply something similar in my own life this week?
  (If it challenged you, explain why.)

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4. Temperament Reflection Prompt

• Think about your natural way of interacting in the body of Christ (e.g., quick to speak, slow to act, quietly observing, carefully planning).

• How does this tendency help the body?

• How might it unintentionally hold the body back?

• Share one adjustment you’ll pray about making this week.

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Take Time to Pray...

Close your reflection time by praying:

• Thank God for placing you in the body of Christ.

• Ask Him to reveal specific ways to build up others.

• Invite the Holy Spirit to transform your motives and actions so they match the unity and love described in Ephesians 4.

Continue to walk worthy of your calling—and remember, you are loved to love. 💛