Ephesians 4:12 outlines God’s three objectives as our calling in the Body of Christ: 1) “For the perfecting of the saints, 2) for the work of the ministry, 3) for the edifying of the body of Christ.” A study tool is being used to assist us to realize these goals. Each phrase begins with the helping word “for,” clarifying the reason or purpose of the instruction, in order to walk worthy in the unity of the faith. There is a time measure and our goal in the next verse: “Till we all come to the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ.”(vs.13) There is a present reality in our working this out as we are on earth, walking by faith, but also a future aspect, when there will be a completion of the process. Meditate on this.
As we walk this out, there will be eternal fruit within the Body: “That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive.” (Eph. 4:14) As we speak the truth in love and let Christ be magnified in our body, we will grow spiritually: “fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.(vs. 16) This is the unity of verse 13! As one, the Body of Christ is to work in unison to accomplish our objectives so all are edified:
1) “Perfecting of the saints:” In a women’s role, we have unique relationships in our families, jobs, and those we meet to manifest Christ in a powerful way: in our heart, thinking, words, and behavior. Pray to be used of God in these unique opportunities to edify by doctrine and application. We may be an example or have opportunities to do direct teaching, mentoring, or maybe offer an encouraging word to focus above. Many times, opportunities do not just drop in our laps, we may need to take the initiative as saints may give subtle or even no clues that they are in distress and need help. Pray to be observant when someone is struggling, to offer love and friendship or just an ear. Purpose to be more aware and use occasions to be a living sacrifice.
2) “Work of the ministry:” Ministry is a vocation, and an action of serving someone: teaching, preaching, evangelism. etc.Take time to define this phrase in more depth; study it in Scripture, and pray to have a heart of service. This will set aside the flesh, adjusting time restraints, to think differently. As women, we are all very busy yet take a moment to think about why God has left us here on earth on Christ’s behalf. Are many things or ‘to dos’ distractions created by Satan’s course of this world? Is God at the center of our lives if we have no time for the ministry? Each dear sister is encouraged to become self-aware and to meditate on these things and look at themselves honestly, with clarity. The flesh and fear can blind or sidetrack us, along with habits and traditional ways of thinking. Think about all you have been given, and specific skills, strengths, desires, and opportunities. Now consider the Body needs around you. This can provide clarity in how to be a part of this grand ministry, the work God your Father has called you specifically to do.
3) “Edifying of the Body:” To edify is to build another up in spiritual things, providing assistance on God’s behalf to instruct, enlighten, guide, mentor, or teach another in sound doctrine for living. This constructs an edifice of doctrine within the inner man, not just head knowledge, to learn to walk worthy and live acceptably. Women can edify others in every aspect of their life: interactions, their thinking and way of living, but also make opportunities to serve by purposing to be used by God to supply what is needed for helping in physical things, spiritual growth, and our maturity.
Reflect: Determine to study this for yourself and think about how to apply these things.
SUPPLY OF GRACE 
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