The pursuit of unity
Eph. 4:17: So I tell you this, and insist on it in the Lord, that you must no longer live as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their thinking (NIV).
The lives of the unbelievers in Ephesus were futile because they lacked eternal significance. They were motivated by selfish desires and self indulgence, which eventually led to hardened hearts. The basis of their thinking was "others exist for me."
As believers, we are called to show our love for God by selflessly loving others. While this is contrary to our sinful nature, it is the very thing that distinguishes believers from unbelievers.
We have many opportunities (and a responsibility) to demonstrate this principle to the people closest to us—our families. Unfortunately, we often use our intimate knowledge to manipulate each other, pursuing what we want rather than showing God's character through us. Ephesians 4:25 reminds us that "we are all members of one body" and that unity is promoted when we think more of others than of ourselves.
Stay connected to your family by loving selflessly and having a servant's heart.
