As I grow older, I am beginning to appreciate the importance of walking. Fitness enthusiasts sometimes underestimate the discipline of walking because it is not as intense or exciting compared to running or lifting weights. But a simple 30-minute walk every day can increase cardiovascular fitness, strengthen bones, boost immunity, reduce excess body fat, and support muscle growth.
In Ephesians 5, the apostle Paul reminds us that our Christian life is similar to this simple yet powerful discipline of walking. Christian discipleship is not about scaling walls, running sprints, or lifting heavy weights. It is about walking daily in obedience and trust.
Here are three ways God describes the Christian walk.
1. Walk in Love (Eph. 5:2)
A disciple walks in the footsteps of our Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ, who loved us and gave himself up for us. Walking in love is practical, sacrificial, and for the good of others.
In Ephesians 4, Paul describes what this Christian walk looks like. Walking in love involves humility, gentleness, bearing with one another, and maintaining peace (Eph. 4:2-3).
In the church, it means identifying and using our spiritual gifts to encourage and serve others (Eph. 4:7). In our relationships, it involves speaking truth in love to one another (Eph. 4:25), and forgiving and reconciling with each other instead of sinning in our anger (Eph: 4:26).
Our speech should not be corrupt but we should use it to build others up (Eph. 4:29). Internally, we put away anger, bitterness, slander, and malice. Instead, we display kindness, tenderheartedness, and forgiveness (Eph: 4:31-32). We follow Jesus by walking in love.
2. Walk in the Light (Eph. 5:8)
Jesus has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us into his kingdom of light (Col. 1:13-14). He calls us to walk in the light as he himself is in the light (1 John 1:5-7).
In Ephesians 5, Paul addresses 3 practical areas of walking in the light: how we use our body, our tongue, and our money. Walking in the light involves a life of daily repentance before God and regular, honest confession to others.
Sin loses its power in our lives when we bring it into the light and God’s grace shines upon it. The more we hide it, the more it seems potent, alive, and attractive. We follow Jesus by walking in the light.
3. Walk in Wisdom (Eph. 5:15)
Jesus is wisdom personified (1 Cor. 1:24). Learning from Jesus and listening to him slowly transforms us to act wisely.
In Ephesians 5, Paul’s instruction calls us to be circumspect in all our ways (Eph. 5:15). A disciple is constantly examining his or her life through the lens of God’s word. They are vigilant and attentive.
The wisdom of God protects us in every area of life (Prov. 4:6). A heart of wisdom involves a willing and voluntary submission to God’s word and God’s will. In a world which constantly mocks and contradicts God’s design and purpose, a heart of wisdom is willing to consider God’s instruction and joyfully submit to it.
As you continue to follow Jesus, walk in love, walk in light, and walk in wisdom.
Walking is an image for daily obedience, being faithful in the mundane, and walking in step with the Holy Spirit. Let our lives be marked by spiritual health and may we become more like Christ in every aspect of our lives.
