We are called to work and obey with a whole heart towards those in authority over us. When we obey and serve those in charge of us, we are serving the Lord, and the quality of our obedience and enthusiasm with which we work reveal the quality of our faith. It shows whether we believe that Jesus is the Lord and that we can entrust ourselves to Him, regardless of our circumstances.

Suggestions for Studying Ephesians During the Series:

1. Read daily passages along with NLT or ESV study Bible.
2. Read the whole book in one sitting once a week for the remainder of the series.
3. Listen to the whole book in one sitting once a week for the remainder of the series.

Click here to read the book of Ephesians.

Scripture References

Ephesians 6:5-9
Ephesians 4:1
Ephesians 5:1-2
Philippians 4:13
1 Corinthians 7, 12

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-Jesus didn’t come to deliver you out of your current circumstances; He came to deliver you in the midst of them. In what ways do you struggle with trusting Jesus in the midst of difficult circumstances? How can you begin to follow Jesus where He has currently placed you?
– We are free from the need to assert our rights because Jesus’ death secured our rights for us. What areas of your life do you tend to attempt to assert your rights or defend yourself? How can you begin to entrust these things to Jesus?
-We are called to obey with whole hearts and serve enthusiastically towards those in authority over us. Are there times when you whine, complain, or grumble at work or only obey when you are being watched? In what ways can you begin to shift your attitude and work in a way that honors God?

Thoughts to Consider

-Our difficult circumstances are an opportunity for God to display His glory in the world and reveal His grace through us.
-We should work and obey with enthusiasm as if we are working for the Lord, not just for people.
-You can live your whole life trying to assert yourself and your rights, but whatever gains you make you are going to lose. You can’t hang onto it in the end.
-The depth of your humility with those underneath your authority reveals whether you believe you have a Master in heaven to whom you are accountable.
-Jesus is ultimately the boss over all things, and He will make all things right one day. This gives us hope for the future and lends dignity and purpose in our work.