Called by Grace
SINCERE MILK October Devotional Series: Rooted in Christ Day 1 — Called by Grace Bible Reading: Ephesians 1:1–2 “Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, To God’s holy people in Ephesus, the faithful in Christ Jesus.” — Ephesians 1:1 REFLECTION Paul begins his letter by reminding the believers who they are and, just as importantly, whose they are. He introduces himself as an apostle of Christ Jesus “by the will of God.” His calling was not simply the result of personal ambition, human recognition, or his own plans. God had called him and given him a purpose. Then Paul addresses the believers as “God’s holy people” and “the faithful in Christ Jesus.” This is significant. Before Paul tells them what they should do, he reminds them who they are. The Christian life begins with identity before activity. We often measure ourselves by our achievements, failures, possessions, titles, relationships, or the opinions of others. But our deepest identity is found i...