Introduction: Do you know your ABC’s? How about making good relationships? Fixing failures with family and friends can be challenging.

Check out the following:

1. A- Affirmation! (Eph 4:1) – “I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called.”

* The word “beseech” is παρακαλέω, which can mean to summon, to invite, or to entreat. It can mean to beg, or to admonish, and actually can mean to comfort, encourage, or to console.

*The word “worthy” is ἀξίως: (ax-ee’-oce), which means in a manner worthy of. Also the word used in this context can mean “equal weight”.

In other words, Paul was inspired to encourage the believers in Ephesus – and today – to walk worthy of their calling to salvation but also in their process of sanctification with other believers in the Church. 

2. B- Behavior Modification! (Eph 4:2) – “With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love.”

Humility is the opposite of pride. A “Know it all” attitude of pride can create disunity instead of unity.  

Do you feel prideful in your relationships?

3. C- Communication! (Eph 4:2,15) – “With all lowliness and meekness, with longs uffering, forbearing one another in love……But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ.”

Here is the key – not compromising, but speaking the truth in love.

4. D- Dedication! (Eph 4:3) – “Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.”

The word “endeavoring” is σπουδάζω: (spoo-dad’-zo), which means to give diligence, or to hasten. It can mean to be eager, or zealous.

Do you make every effort to be diligent in keeping unity?

5. E- Examination! (Eph 4:2) – “With all lowliness and meekness, with longs uffering, forbearing one another in love.”

The word “forbearing” is ἀνέχομαι (an-ekh’-om-ahee). It means to hold up, or to bear with. Interesting. Huh? This word has to do with having patience. 

Needless to say, this is a great word that can only be accomplished thru the power of the Holy Spirit. 

Conclusion: How are you doing to keep the unity with your family and friends? How about your Church family?