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Ephesians 1:1-14 Changing Masters (Western Echo Article)The worst type of slavery is one disguised as freedom. We all want to be free to pursue happiness without pausing to consider whether our pursuit of happiness is in fact a form of slavery. We study to get a good job so that we can afford happiness. We have friends to be happy, we enter into intimate relationships to be happy and some believe in God hoping that he will will bring happiness.  Experience true freedom I’ve noticed that people get very depressed about happiness. They may have most things they thought would make them happy and found that they are not. Or they feel that they will never manage to attain their goals, or they lose what had made them happy. People sometimes lose hope and their will to live because they can’t see how they can ever be happy. Being a slave to happiness can be very cruel. It can strip from you the very joy of living. It will progressively narrow what you find enjoyable until there is very little left. For example anything that requires you to be patient and faithful is hardly tolerated. We live in the NOW and expect instant and easy results. We get depressed when work and relationships require personal effort and sacrifice without giving us the results we want. Much of our pursuit of happiness makes us tired and sad. Jesus said “He who seeks to save his life will lose it.” (Mark 8:35) Changing masters might seem like going from freedom to slavery but in reality it is the reverse. Jesus said “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28-30) the Rev
Ephesians 1:1-14 "Where are your riches?"Bible Reading: Ephesians 1:1-14 Exercises Share what encourages you from Paul’s life and what you have learnt about God. Discuss in what way you are like the Ephesians, how does Christ help you? Explore and share in what way you need to experience the gospel in your life. How has this passage encouraged you to love God and love people?
Prayer: Heavenly Father forgive me for being so spiritually blind to you. So often my circumstances overwhelm my view of you. Reveal the riches of your deep love for me every day. Strengthen and inflame my love and passion for you. May my possessions and joys be subject to you rather than the other way around. May you be my greatest joy and hope as I face the many challenges and frustrations in my life. Amen |
