Ephesians 2:1-5 Contemporary English Version (CEV)
As I look at the world and I listen to the news, I must remind myself over and over again that all powers are subjected to Jesus—the sinless Son of God—and one day he will be Head over all creation. Things in the world are so antagonistic to a godly life; demonic forces always seeking to diminish our perfect Teacher—Jesus Christ—who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life of God (John 14:6).
Believers are called to live holy lives; holiness comes only through a right relationship with God. The Lord mercifully pours his love into us and we receive in a posture of worship; we obediently Love God with our whole being and go into the world to give his love to others. Only God can take us from a spiritually dead state, breathe life into us, and make us holy. No human being can take credit for appropriating spiritual life or holiness. To follow Christ into holiness, we must be willing to disconnect from what is unholy; truly, we become like the host to which we connect. We must choose wisely between Christ and the world. As we connect to Christ and remain in that connection, he confers holiness to us. What a wonderful Savior is Jesus our Lord!
Ephesians 2:1-5 From Death to Life
2 In the past you were dead because you sinned and fought against God. 2 You followed the ways of this world and obeyed the devil. He rules the world, and his spirit has power over everyone who doesn’t obey God. 3 Once we were also ruled by the selfish desires of our bodies and minds. We had made God angry, and we were going to be punished like everyone else.
4-5 But God was merciful! We were dead because of our sins, but God loved us so much that he made us alive with Christ, and God’s wonderful kindness is what saves you.
Prayer: Lord, I am so grateful that all powers are subjected to you. Thank you for saving me! In Jesus’ name. Amen.