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Endeavoring is a verb that means the exact opposite of being passive. A lot of times, when I consider the concept of unity and peace, as is described in the rest of Ephesians verse three, I think of passiveness. I think of not doing something, as opposed to doing something. I think of : not arguing; not being selfish; not getting angry; not gossiping; not doing my own thing or pursuing my own desires. I think of being still.
But everything about the word Paul uses here implies action. Here are some of the English uses of the original Greek word Endeavoring: hasten, make haste, do diligence, be diligent, labor, exert one’s self, make effort. None of these words have the feel of being still or passive. So what is the point in speaking on this one word?
Paul is saying get ready and be prepared to WORK at whatever comes after it. It won’t just happen. It won’t just work itself out. It won’t come together “in time.” Things won't just die down. If any of those things do happen, please know that under the surface, there will be found bitterness, resentment, unforgiveness, anger, and division....the exact opposite of unity and peace. We must make a conscious decision to put in time, sweat, and tears to make unity and peace a symbol of our walk with God and others.
What are some ways you can take action this week to keep unity and peace with God and others? Is there a phone call that needs to take place? Is there an apology that needs to be made? Is there a home you can visit? Is there restitution that needs to be made? Is there a hurt, habit, or hang-up that needs to be let go? Whatever God is bringing to your heart and mind right now…make the endeavor!
Seeking to Grow my Walk with God and Others,
Dawn~
But everything about the word Paul uses here implies action. Here are some of the English uses of the original Greek word Endeavoring: hasten, make haste, do diligence, be diligent, labor, exert one’s self, make effort. None of these words have the feel of being still or passive. So what is the point in speaking on this one word?
Paul is saying get ready and be prepared to WORK at whatever comes after it. It won’t just happen. It won’t just work itself out. It won’t come together “in time.” Things won't just die down. If any of those things do happen, please know that under the surface, there will be found bitterness, resentment, unforgiveness, anger, and division....the exact opposite of unity and peace. We must make a conscious decision to put in time, sweat, and tears to make unity and peace a symbol of our walk with God and others.
What are some ways you can take action this week to keep unity and peace with God and others? Is there a phone call that needs to take place? Is there an apology that needs to be made? Is there a home you can visit? Is there restitution that needs to be made? Is there a hurt, habit, or hang-up that needs to be let go? Whatever God is bringing to your heart and mind right now…make the endeavor!
Seeking to Grow my Walk with God and Others,
Dawn~
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