Talking about a high calling—specifically, the one found in Ephesians 4:1. Paul tells us to live a life ‘worthy of the calling’ we’ve received. But what does that actually look like in the trenches of daily life? It’s not about status; it’s about character.
To keep the ‘unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace’ (v. 3), we have to embrace four specific traits. If we want the body of Christ to reach maturity (vv. 15–16), these aren’t optional.
1. Humility
First, we have humility. This isn’t about thinking poorly of yourself; it’s about putting the needs of others ahead of your own (Philippians 2:3–4). Look at Jesus. He was born in a manger, lived simply, yet changed the world. He taught us that ‘whoever humbles himself will be exalted’ (Matthew 23:12). To walk worthy, we have to drop the ego.
2. Gentleness
Next is gentleness. This is a direct resistance to self-importance. It’s the fruit of the Spirit in action (Galatians 5:23). Gentleness isn’t weakness; it’s courtesy under pressure. It avoids unnecessary conflict and proves to the world that we actually belong to Him (John 13:34–35).
3. Patience
Then, we have patience. Now, we all know this one is tough. Patience is the antidote to self-gratification. It’s another core fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22) and a requirement for love. As Paul famously wrote, ‘love is patient’ (1 Corinthians 13:4). You can’t have one without the other.
4. Love (Bearing with One Another)
Finally, we are called to bear with one another in love. Now, listen closely: in the New Testament, ‘love’ isn’t just a warm, fuzzy feeling. It’s an action. It’s the choice to benefit someone else, even when they’re difficult to be around. If your ‘love’ doesn’t result in action, the Bible says it isn’t the real deal.
The Bottom Line: When we embrace these Christlike traits—humility, gentleness, patience, and active love—we move past the ‘old self’ and start building healthy, unified relationships (vv. 20–32). That is how we walk worthy. That is how the church breathes.
By: Jeffrey Wald