March 25, 2026

DIGNITY AS A CHILD OF GOD

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

"Let there be no sexual immorality, impurity, or greed among you. Such sins have no place among God’s people. Obscene stories, foolish talk, and coarse jokes—these are not for you. Instead, let there be thankfulness to God. You can be sure that no immoral, impure, or greedy person will inherit the Kingdom of Christ and of God. For a greedy person is an idolater, worshiping the things of this world. Don’t be fooled by those who try to excuse these sins, for the anger of God will fall on all who disobey him. Don’t participate in the things these people do.”

Ephesians 5:3-7 NLT

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TODAY’S THOUGHT

When we transition from being "children of the world" to "children of God," our behavior changes. The reason is that we are not afraid of being grounded because we have received a new identity. In Ephesians 5:3–7, Paul lays out the "Family Manners" for those who carry the name of Christ.

In the NIV verse three says, “these are improper for God’s holy people.” He is saying: "This behavior doesn't go with your new last name." It’s like a prince being caught brawling in the mud—it’s not just wrong; it’s beneath his dignity.

1. The "Not Even a Hint" Standard

Paul doesn't say, "Try to keep your immorality to a minimum." He says there should be “no sexual immorality, impurity, or greed among you.” 

• The Old Way: Pushing the boundaries to see how close to the "line" we can get without falling.

• The Family Way: Staying so far from the line that no one could even mistake us for being on the other side.

2. The "Greed" Connection

It’s fascinating that Paul puts "Greed" in the same category as "Sexual Immorality." Why? Because both stem from the same root: The desire to take what isn't yours to satisfy a hunger only God can fill. 

A "Giver" imitates the Father.

A "Taker" (Greed/Immorality) imitates the world.

3. The Vocabulary of the Kingdom

Paul then moves to our speech. He mentions "obscene stories," "foolish talk," and "coarse jokes."

• The World’s Way: Using humor to tear down, sexualize, or belittle others.

• The Family Way: Thanksgiving. Paul says the antidote to "dirty talk" isn't just silence; it’s a heart so full of gratitude that there is no room for garbage.

The "Family Tree" Check

In verse 5, Paul reminds us that we are heirs to the Kingdom. When you act out of greed or impurity, you are essentially "worshiping the things of this world" (idolatry). Paul tells us not to be “fooled by those who try to excuse these sins” and “don’t participate in the things these people do.”

We must watch carefully who we associate with. If those we spend our time with are involved in these kinds of behavior, we will begin to excuse that behavior and eventually we will copy that behavior. 

The Move: Is there a "hint" of something that doesn't fit your identity as a follower of Christ? Change it today. Confess, repent, and receive God’s clear freedom. 

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TODAY’S PRAYER

Father, thank You for adopting me and giving me a seat at Your table. Help me to remember my dignity as Your child today. Wash my mind of anything that is 'improper' for a follower of Christ. Replace my selfish desires with a heart of thanksgiving. Amen.

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