Read Ephesians 4:1–3

I’ve never run a marathon. I’ve never even wanted to. I admire those who have, and I’m always amazed at the intense training marathon runners endure before they strap on their race-day shoes and head to the starting line. Interestingly, when it comes to running the marathon of faith that God has called us to run, He encourages us to begin with a “walk.”

Therefore I, a prisoner for serving the Lord, beg you to lead [or “walk”] a life worthy of your calling, for you have been called by God. Always be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other’s faults because of your love. Make every effort to keep yourselves united in the Spirit, binding yourselves together with peace. (Ephesians 4:1–3)

Aren’t you thankful that God cares so much about our spiritual condition, that when He asks us to begin a process of training for the long haul, He “begs” us to get underway one step at a time. First, step into humility with your right foot. Then step into gentleness. Walk step by step in humility and gentleness. Good, there you go! You’re getting it. Good job! Now, let’s start walking patiently. Good, one foot forward in patience. Great! Now walk with understanding toward others. There you go! One step at a time: humility, gentleness, patience, understanding. Now, walk together step-by-step in the Spirit. That’s terrific! You’re walking!

Aren’t you glad He didn’t just say, “Ready, set, race!” He knows we need time to develop...to learn to walk in obedience. To lead a life worthy of what He’s done for us. We have been called by God, who initiated the plan of salvation. We have been called by Christ, who implemented the plan. We have been called and sealed by the Holy Spirit, who has inspired and enabled the plan. Now He says, “Let it make a difference in your walk. Walk worthy.”

Isn’t that a great word?

Devotional content taken from Good Morning, Lord...Can We Talk? by Charles R. Swindoll. Copyright © 2018. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, a Division of Tyndale House Ministries. All rights reserved.

The full devotional can be purchased at https://www.tyndale.com/p/good-morning-lord-can-we-talk/9781414380681.