Practice – “repeated performance or systematic exercise for the purpose of acquiring skill and proficiency.”
Plie’, tendu, degage’, rond-de-jambe... repetitive barre-work begins a ballerina’s day, every day as long as she dances. Practice is focused and purposeful; the honing of basic skills to show oneself approved.
This week Ephesians has been challenging me on what skills I am to practice for God:
“You must no longer live as non-believers, in futility of thinking … greedy to practice every self-gratification.” Ephesians 4:17,19
No, I am to have a “renewed mind- putting on a righteous and holy self; created after the likeness of God.” Ephesians 4:23-24
“…with ALL humility and gentleness, patiently (!) letting NO unwholesome word come out of my mouth -ONLY what’s beneficial, FULL of grace… EVER Kind, compassionate, forgiving others, like God forgave me through Jesus” – Whew. Ephesians 4:29, 31 & 32
Boy, that’s a lot to practice every day! If I’ve been saved by grace alone, why do I have go to such extreme efforts?
Because my behavior shows gratitude to God. And by “walking in love, like Jesus loved me and gave Himself up for me, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” I imitate Him. Ephesians 5:2
A tall order no doubt. Thankfully He will help me practice.
“God is the One bringing forth in me both the desire and the effort – for His good pleasure.” Philippians 2:13
ForGlorySake! –Anna
