Oh… this chapter just keeps getting better and better!

We are looking at just one verse today: Ephesians 4:16.

KJV: “¹⁶ From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love”

In this verse, Paul uses an analogy of the body to explain how important each of us are in building the church in love. Now, if there is one thing that chronically ill people know about that is about what happens when one body part doesn’t work right or perform its duty.

Think about it. What disruption does it cause to your day when even the small adrenal glands malfunction. Your entire life is disrupted; if not caught in time, your life will be more than disrupted. But, the adrenal glands are so small. They may even seem unimportant due to their size, but they can upset the proverbial apple cart.

In the same way, when one in the church body isn’t performing the God-given function in the body, the church can’t be built up as it should. Two things that stand out to me in this.

1. We need to seek God for what He has for us in the body. We are important even though perhaps a support role in the body of the church (like ligaments or tendons in the body). We have purpose.
2. We need to realize that if we are not performing that role, the church will be affected. I find it is so easy as a home-bound individual to slip into thinking there is nothing I can do to serve. This is a lie. I have a feeling I am not alone. Do not discount the service and power of a prayer/encouragement ministry. Please realize that your life has purpose in the body of Christ. You are vitally important.

Brief side note: I know there are some of you reading this who are at a place where the challenges of disability/care-giving/chronic illness are completely overwhelming. We all go through seasons where we are the ones who are in need of help for a time. Just as in our bodies we must compensate for injured body parts (using crutches and resting with a sprain for instance), times will come when we are the body part in the church needing rest and assistance. You may be at this place.

Isn’t it an exciting reality that we are a vital part of the church. We can be used to help the body of Christ grow in love, to be built up in love. Let’s rise up today and serve Him! Selah. Amen.