“And walk in love, just as Christ also loved you and gave Himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God as a fragrant aroma.” Ephesians 5:2
“Walk in love.” The Apostle Paul uses these three words to inspire Christian unity; stirring us to love one another. He points to the ultimate example of love – Christ. He is our model for what walking in love looks like. Christlike love is costly. It makes sacrifices for the good of others and for the glory of God. This kind of love has a sweetness to it that others find attractive and encouraging.
But Paul didn’t stop with inspiration. He moves on to instruction, “…speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody with your heart to the Lord” (Ephesians 5:19). Christlike love not only has a sweet aroma, it has a pleasant sound as well. Certain people always seem to have a song in their heart and encouragement on their lips. These rare individuals are refreshing to be around because their hearts stay in tune with the Lord.
Then to strengthen his instruction, Paul reminds us that how we live and speak affects other believers.“…we are members of His body” (Ephesians 5:30). Because we join the body of Christ, becoming a Christian is the last decision we make in isolation. At that point, what we say and do has an impact on the whole body. So, acts of sacrificial love and words of encouragement given to one fellow believer actually bless the church as a whole. Likewise, selfish behavior and slanderous speech weakens the body.
So, how about you? Do you love with the same kind of love you’ve received from Christ? Would the people in your church or neighborhood say you’re refreshing to be around? Ask the Lord to help you walk in Christlike love. It starts by staying close to Him; daily reading His Word and seeking His will in prayer. As you do, His presence will become a winsome aroma and a sweet song of joy to those around you.