Work of Art

Carry on…with Purpose

In and Through

God first works in us so He can then work through us.

God takes our history and makes it His Story.

In Ephesians 2:10 Paul says we are God’s creation – or His workmanship, handiwork, or masterpiece, depending on which English Bible translation you read. In the original Greek we are His poiema – which means “work of art.” This is also where we get our English word for poem. We are His masterful poem. Each and every one of us. Our redemption becomes a display of God’s great kindness and love. As believers in Christ we become a living, walking art gallery of God’s abundant grace toward us. But we don’t become God’s “work of art” merely for the sake of looking good. God first works in us so He can then work through us.

Read Ephesians 2:4-10

If this overarching passage is a call to carry on with purpose, then why did talk about our before-and-after “But God” stories? Two reasons. One, our “But God” stories are examples of God’s great love for us. He, who is rich in mercy, has transformed us. He’s given us a new start. Two, our “But God” stories are a key element to the purpose He’s given us. The work He’s done in us becomes the work He’ll do through us for the sake of others. God takes our history and makes it His Story.

Someone needs to hear your story of God’s goodness displayed in your life. Someone in your life needs to know they’re not alone. They need to know that others have experienced something similar, and by God’s grace have make it through.

God has prepared good works for each of us. It might be in the place where we least expect it, or in the place where we feel we least deserve it. God actually prefers it this way, because then we have no choice but to give Him all the credit. Oftentimes our calling resides in the place where we are most dependent on Him.

Diving Deeper

What is God rich in?

Why does Paul make it clear that we are saved by grace through faith?

Do you ever struggle to see yourself as a work of art? What are the hurdles you face in believing that you are indeed, God’s masterpiece?

Every believer in Christ has been given a purpose. Sometimes that purpose is revealed in an instant. Sometimes it takes a period of time for that purpose to be revealed. Is God’s purpose for your life clear? Write out a prayer either giving Him thanks for making your purpose in life clear or asking him what your purpose in life might be.

Write it out – While writing Ephesians 2:4-10, let’s give God praise. He has given each of us a specific purpose that we might be a beautiful display of His great grace.

Prayer: Thank You, Lord, for paying the price of salvation. I can do nothing to earn it. When I struggle deep inside to see myself as a beautiful work of art, remind me that You fashioned med from Your good and perfect will. Please make know to me the path You have purposed for me, and help me to trust wholly in You. Amen.

May God give you the Spirit of wisdom & revelation so that you may know Him better. Have an awesome day in the Lord!! Ephesians 1:17

Be Blessed and Be a Blessing!

Denise J. Hughes, “Word Writes: Ephesians”