[Ephesians 5]

H – Ephesians 5:1, “Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children.”

E – Imitate!

Anytime you see the word “therefore” you need to see what has transpired to lead the reader to this point. For the church at Ephesus, Paul reminds them that they have been forgiven in and through Christ Jesus (4:32). They are now His children and it’s time to act like it. 

Just as it is natural for an earthly child to imitate his earthly father, so should the spiritual child imitate his Heavenly Father. The word imitate comes from the word mimeomai, from which we get our word mimic. It means “to act like.”

Therefore, believers are to imitate God’s holiness in all of their conduct. Believers are to be like him, following and mimicking His example; walking in love (5:2), surrendering themselves (5:2), and obeying Him above all (avoiding sin – (5:3)).

A – There are 5 “Be” statements that caught my attention this morning. 

Be Imitators (5:1), Be Thankful (5:4), Be Light (5:8), Be Wise (5:15), and Be Filled (5:18). 

When I imitate The Lord, as His Child, I simple want to BE in Him and BE who He has called me to be. 

R – Lord God, thank you for saving me and forgiving me. Lord, walking in light of your forgiveness, help me to throw off all sinfulness that you reveal. Lord God, fill me with your Spirit, help me to walk wisely, being light in darkness, and walking in thanksgiving as an imitator of You. God, help me to discern what is pleasing to you (5:10) and follow accordingly. Help me to make the best use of the time you have and will give me (5:15). And, may my life be used for your Glory. 

In Jesus Name!