Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need. (Ephesians 4:28)
This verse is part of Paul’s instructions to the Ephesians on how to live as new creations in Christ. It is a practical and ethical application of the Gospel, which transforms us from being selfish and sinful to being generous and righteous.
It reflects the heart of God, who gives us everything we have and expects us to use it for his glory and for the good of others.
In this devotional, we will explore four implications of this verse: the problem of stealing, the purpose of working, the power of sharing, and the promise of blessing.
Problem of Stealing
The first thing that Paul addresses in this verse is the problem of stealing. Stealing is taking something that belongs to someone else without their permission or consent. It is a violation of God’s commandment and an offense against our neighbor.
It is a manifestation of our fallen nature, which is greedy, covetous, and rebellious. It is a sign of our lack of trust in God, who provides for our needs and desires. It is a symptom of our discontentment with what we have and our dissatisfaction with who we are.
We may think that stealing is not a big deal or that it does not apply to us; rationalizing that we are only taking what we deserve or what we need. We may even justify that we are only borrowing or using what is not ours.
But the truth is that stealing is a serious sin and a harmful habit. It dishonors God, who owns everything and gives us everything.
It damages our relationship with others, who are made in God’s image and deserve our respect. It destroys our character, which is shaped by our choices and actions.
Purpose of Working
The second thing that Paul teaches in this verse is the purpose of working. Working is doing something useful with our own hands, using the abilities and opportunities that God has given us.
It is a way of expressing our gratitude and stewardship to God, who created us and gifted us; a way of fulfilling our role and responsibility in God’s kingdom, which is advancing and growing.
We may view work as a curse or a burden, or complain that it’s difficult or tedious. It’s possible to resent the fact that work is necessary or obligatory, and we might even avoid it because it’s challenging or demanding.
However, the truth is that work is a blessing and a privilege. It honors God, who himself works and rests.
Work benefits us by providing for our needs and allowing us to enjoy the fruits of our labor. It also helps others who depend on us and appreciate our contributions. Ultimately, work reflects our dignity, which is both derived from and affirmed by our labor.
Power of Sharing
The third thing Paul emphasizes in this verse is the power of sharing. Sharing is giving something that we have to someone who needs it.
It is a demonstration of our love and generosity to God, who loves us and gave his Son for us.
Sharing what we have is a gain and a joy. It pleases God, who sees and rewards. It enriches us, who give and receive.
Promise of Blessing
The fourth thing that Paul reveals in this verse is the promise of blessing. Blessing is the favor and grace of God that he bestows on us and through us.
It is the result and reward of living according to God’s will and way. It is the evidence and testimony of God’s presence and power in our lives, and the hope and assurance of God’s future and plan for us.
Conclusion
God wants us to live as His children, who are transformed by His grace and empowered by His Spirit.
He wants us to stop stealing and start working, so that we may have something to share with those in need. He wants us to experience His blessing and be a blessing to others.
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