The final chapter of Paul's epistle to the Ephesians concludes his twin themes of the righteousness we have in Christ Jesus and the continual work of the Holy Spirit in our lives, which leads us in godliness. His very familiar parable comparing the gifts of the spirit to Roman armor is a beautiful depiction of the blessings that we have as God's people. We are well fitted and well suited for spiritual warfare as God's soldiers, redeemed in Christ Jesus, and built up by the Holy Spirit's continual work in our lives.

Solomon is captivated, no, intoxicated by the beauty of his wife. Here we explore some of the poignant metaphors describing his love for her.

The Song of Solomon is an epic romantic poem, penned by young King Solomon, before he wandered far and wide from the Lord's will. It is a description of human and divine love, a picture of God's love for you! Although it may make some uncomfortable with its frank and detailed account of Solomon's relations with one of his many wives, its lessons are timeless.

Husband and wives are called in this chapter to surrender their desires their wants, and their needs and to sacrifice for their spouse. It is hard for us to love those who hurt us, but that is exactly what God has done for us in Christ Jesus. In this section talking about serving one another in Christ, we learn how marriage, in particular, is a wonderful display of God's work in the world.

There is no better time than the present to honor God! This is what wisdom teaches. God's Wisdom keeps us on the straight and narrow and blesses us in every season of life. Thanks be to God for His unending patience and everlasting love!

There is a pervasive "paralysis of analysis" gripping many, institutions, and a great number of churches. When we are in preservation mode, we operate out of fear, not faith. Instead of waiting for everything to be just right, Solomon encourages us to invest and get to work.

All Christians share a common calling to speak the truth in love. Even though distinct offices are mentioned in this passage, we do well to focus on our shared calling. When we grow spiritually, we are conformed by the Holy Spirit's power to the likeness of Christ, to be a blessing to others, even as God in Christ Jesus has blessed us.

The Parable of the Woodcutters is a modern leadership paradigm, the seventh principle of Steven Covey's famous leadership book about highly effective individuals. Abe Lincoln is also rumored to have taught this parable, but we learn it here from the lips of Solomon. It enourages us towards effectiveness and efficiency in all that we do by applying wisdom to every aspect of our lives.