THE CHURCH THAT CHRIST COMMANDS
And the church is his body; it is made full and complete by Christ, who fills all things everywhere with himself.
Ephesians 1:23 (NLT)
Christ is the head of the church. The head sends signals to other parts of the body to move according to its will to complete its purpose. The foot doesn't have the full picture of where it's going or why, but the head does. The hand doesn't know why it's picking something up, but the head does. The hands and feet don't question the head or try to take the brain's place—they simply obey.
As we learned in Ephesians 1:21-22, Jesus earned His place as the head of the body. He lived the life none of us ever could, fulfilled God's redemptive work for us, and did so flawlessly, without sin. All honor, glory and power belong to Him, and in His goodness, graciousness and wisdom, He shares these qualities and attributes with us. Our perfect God could accomplish all His purposes on His own, but He chooses to use broken humanity so we can share in His power.
Through the Spirit and His power, Jesus fills all things everywhere with Himself. Think of a relationship you've had for years that keeps getting stronger and better with time. The more you hang out, talk with and grow with that person, the more of that person you're getting. The same principle applies to your relationship with Jesus. You want to be more like Jesus? Fill your time, your head and your heart with Him.
APPLICATION: Is there something you know God wants you to do, but you're dragging your feet to do it? Now is the time! Whether you're a hand, foot or other part of the body, don't question the head—just obey and experience the results. If not, ask God where He wants you moving today.
PRAYER: Jesus, thank You for being the head of the church. I can trust Your guidance and leadership, so help me grow in that faith and trust. Guide and direct me today so I can be Your hands and feet. Amen.
"… Our Father in heaven…" Matthew 6:9b (NLT)
• What do You want to say to me today as my Father?
"… may your name be kept holy." Matthew 6:9c (NLT)
• What do You want to reveal to me about Your power today?
"May your Kingdom come soon." Matthew 6:10a (NLT)
• Help me make Your priorities my priorities today.
"Give us today the food we need," Matthew 6:11 (NLT)
• Is there anything specific You want me to do with my time or the people I'm around today?
"and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us" Matthew 6:12 (NLT)
• Reveal to me anyone I need to forgive or ask for forgiveness.
"And don’t let us yield to temptation…" Matthew 6:13a (NLT)
• Is there anywhere I'm vulnerable to temptation?