In our walk through Ephesians, we have now reached the practical advice in chapters 4-6.

Ephesians 4:2-3. We looked at verse 2 yesterday and learned about lowliness, meekness, longsuffering, and forbearance with one another. This is a tall order and only accomplished through Christ.

Today, we see that we do have a choice or a part to play in it. With all that is mentioned in verse 2, we are to be, “³ Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” (KJV)

• Endeavor. The word says that there is effort in mind. It is not something that may come naturally. It is something that we work for.
• Keep. Hold on to it. It is precious. Retain it.
• Unity of the Spirit. We learned about this unity in chapters 1-3. We are alive. We are the church, one in Christ. We need to be striving for the same attitude, working toward the same goal, and going in the same direction.
• Bond of peace. A bond holds things together. What is the trait that will hold this unity? Peace.

Now, let’s talk. Holding on to the unity of the Spirit with the bond of peace is going to take effort. It is going to mean that we must think of others first and be willing to listen. Thankfully, there are other Scriptures that help us in this area. Romans 12 has excellent practical advice on what we are learning in verses 2-3 of Ephesians 4. Verse 3 says, “³ For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.” Paul also talks about this in Philippians 2 using Christ as our great example.

How does this relate to us as isolated, home-bound individuals? I am glad you asked. It is very easy for us to become focused on our world, our needs, and our challenges. When others disappoint us, misunderstand us, or seem to put us off, it is easy to focus on us. This causes discord. If we are walking worthy of our calling in Christ, we can turn this around by applying the principles in verses 2-3. It takes work. Yet, it will be worth it. It will contribute to the unity of the Spirit, bound in peace. We are called to this, called to serve.

What are some other passages that help you in this endeavor to walk worthy? What are some ways you have been able to apply the verses in the isolated life? We would love to hear from you.