Ephesians 5

 “Then Peter said to her, ‘How could you conspire to test the Spirit of the Lord?’”

— Acts 5:9 (NIV)

The story of Ananias and Sapphira is one of the most uncomfortable moments in the Book of Acts. Two people lie about how much they gave to the church — and both drop dead. It’s intense. It feels extreme. And it’s easy to think: “That was then… not now.”

But their story isn’t just about judgment. It’s a mirror — showing us uncomfortable truths about authenticity, pride, and integrity in today’s faith culture. For today’s generation, this story raises seven powerful lessons we can’t afford to ignore.

 1. God Sees Past the Performance

Acts 5:2 (NIV) – “With his wife’s full knowledge he kept back part of the money for himself, but brought the rest and put it at the apostles’ feet.”

Ananias didn’t have to give everything but he pretended he did. His sin wasn’t in how much he gave, but in trying to look more spiritual than he really was.

We live in an era of filters, curated content, and spiritual branding. But God isn’t impressed by performances. He wants truth, not just in our captions, but in our hearts.

 2. Hypocrisy Destroys Trust in the Church

Acts 5:4 (NIV) – “You have not lied just to human beings but to God.”

Their lie wasn’t just horizontal (to people) , it was vertical (to God). And it hurt the trust within a growing, Spirit-led church.

 When we pretend to be someone we’re not — holy, generous, or “blessed and unbothered” — we make church unsafe for others who are struggling. Authenticity builds the church; hypocrisy breaks it.

 3. Integrity Matters More Than Image

Proverbs 10:9 (GNT) – “Honest people are safe and secure, but the dishonest will be caught.”

Ananias and Sapphira were more concerned with how they looked than who they truly were. Their downfall wasn’t financial — it was spiritual dishonesty. They wanted the credit of being generous without actually sacrificing anything.

In a world that celebrates filters, aesthetics, and highlight reels, this verse reminds us that real safety — real peace — comes from being honest before God and others. You might impress people with your image, but only integrity keeps you secure.

 4. We’re Responsible for Each Other Spiritually

Acts 5:9 (NIV) – Peter asked her, “How could you conspire to test the Spirit of the Lord?”

Sapphira had the chance to come clean — but she chose to co-sign the lie. Her silence became her sin.

In a world of “stay in your lane,” the Bible reminds us: faith is communal. If someone in your circle is drifting spiritually, love says something. Accountability isn’t judgment — it’s grace.

 5. The Holy Spirit Can’t Be Manipulated

Acts 5:3 (GNT) – “Peter said to him, ‘Ananias, why did you let Satan take control of you and make you lie to the Holy Spirit?'”

Peter doesn’t say Ananias lied to the apostles — he says he lied to the Holy Spirit. That tells us something big: the Spirit isn’t a force or an idea — He’s a person, and He knows our hearts.

You can’t fool God. The Holy Spirit is present, aware, and holy. He’s not a vibe to fit into your aesthetic — He’s the one who leads, corrects, and empowers. Don’t just invite Him to the stage — let Him lead your life.

 6. Fear of the Lord Is Still a Thing

Acts 5:11 (NIV) – “Great fear seized the whole church and all who heard about these events.”

This fear wasn’t panic — it was awe, reverence, and seriousness about God’s holiness. The church realized: This is real. God is not playing.

Reverence isn’t old-school — it’s essential. You don’t need to be afraid of God like He’s waiting to punish you, but you should respect Him enough not to treat your faith like a joke.

7. God’s Church Is Meant to Be Pure, Not Polished

Ephesians 5:27 (NIV) – “…to present her to himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless.”

God is preparing His Church — not for a brand launch, but for a Bridegroom. When Ananias and Sapphira brought hidden sin into a holy space, it was a direct threat to the purity of the Church God was building.

We often spend more time polishing our platforms than purifying our hearts. But the early church grew not because it was trendy — but because it was set apart. God still desires a Church that reflects His holiness more than modern perfection.

 Final Thoughts:

Ananias and Sapphira’s story isn’t a scare tactic — it’s a wake-up call. It’s God saying to this generation:

“I don’t want your performance. I want your heart.”

In a world obsessed with image, God is calling everyone back to honesty, humility, and holiness. You don’t need to pretend. You don’t need to impress. You just need to be real with God.

 This Week’s Heart Check:

• Am I pretending in areas of my faith?
• Do I care more about image than integrity?
• Am I honest with God, myself, and my community?

Prayer:

“Lord, strip away every part of me that’s pretending. Make me honest before You. Help me walk in integrity, not just influence. Fill me with the fear of the Lord — and make me a part of a Church that’s pure, not perfect.”

A Fresh Look for a Generation Seeking Real Faith

You’ve probably seen the list on a church wall, a t-shirt, or a Pinterest post:
Love. Joy. Peace. Patience. Kindness. Goodness. Faithfulness. Gentleness. Self-Control.
That’s the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22–23).

But here’s the thing: these aren’t just “nice Christian traits” you try to copy. They’re evidence that something supernatural is growing inside you, something the Holy Spirit is actively forming. Let’s break them down one by one in a way that speaks to real life.

1. LOVE

“Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.” – 1 John 3:18

We live in a world where love is often performative. It’s in captions and emojis, but not always in action. The Holy Spirit teaches us to love people even when they’re difficult, unlovable, or don’t benefit us.
Real love:

• Listens before speaking
• Forgives even when it hurts
• Stays when it’s easier to walk away

2. JOY

“Though you have not seen him, you love him… you are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy.” – 1 Peter 1:8

Joy is different from happiness. It’s not tied to a vibe, a relationship, or a goal. Joy is deep and steady.
You can be battling anxiety and still carry joy. You can be broke and still feel joy. Why? Because joy is rooted in who God is, not what life looks like.

3. PEACE

“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.” – Isaiah 26:3

Peace isn’t passive. It’s fierce trust in the middle of chaos.
For young people constantly hit with bad news, mental pressure, and overthinking, peace feels rare. But the Holy Spirit anchors us when the world spins. Peace shows up in how we handle pressure, stay grounded in prayer, and choose surrender over control.

4. PATIENCE

“Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.” – Ephesians 4:2

We’re an instant generation, streaming, deliveries, dating apps. We’re wired for now.
But spiritual maturity grows in the slow seasons. Patience is learning to:

• Wait without whining
• Love people who don’t “get it” yet
• Trust God’s timeline, not your own

It’s not natural, but it’s powerful and deeply needed in a culture obsessed with speed.

5. KINDNESS

“God’s kindness is intended to lead you to repentance.” – Romans 2:4

Kindness isn’t just random acts. It’s intentional compassion.
It’s DM-ing someone just to check in.
It’s being gentle when you have every reason to be cold.
It’s choosing not to clap back even when you could go viral.
Kindness is powerful because it reflects the kindness God showed us.

6. GOODNESS

“Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” – Romans 12:21

Goodness is about integrity when no one’s watching.
It’s not about being a “good person”, it’s about choosing what’s right, even when it costs you.
It’s:

• Being honest when you could cut corners
• Calling out injustice, even if it’s unpopular
• Living with purity in a world that celebrates compromise

7. FAITHFULNESS

“His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant!’” – Matthew 25:21

This one’s about showing up in relationships, in responsibilities, and in your walk with God.
Faithfulness says:

• “I’ll keep praying, even when I feel nothing.”
• “I’ll show up for my friends when it’s not convenient.”
• “I’ll follow through on what I said.”

In a culture that glorifies jumping ship, faithfulness is countercultural—and deeply beautiful.

8. GENTLENESS

“Let your gentleness be evident to all.” – Philippians 4:5

Gentleness isn’t weakness. It’s controlled strength.
In a world where loud = power, the Spirit teaches us a quieter strength.
Gentleness shows up when:

• You disagree without disrespecting
• You lead without dominating
• You correct without crushing

Jesus was gentle with the broken and we’re called to be like Him.

9. SELF-CONTROL

“Like a city whose walls are broken through is a person who lacks self-control.” – Proverbs 25:28

Without self-control, everything else crumbles.
It’s the Spirit saying:

• “Don’t send that text.”
• “Pause before you scroll.”
• “Say no when you know it’s not worth it.”

This fruit guards your peace, protects your witness, and empowers you to make decisions that align with your purpose not your impulse.

Final Thoughts: Fruit Takes Time

You don’t become a walking, talking Fruit Basket overnight.
But if you stay rooted in Jesus, the Holy Spirit will grow this fruit in you gradually, powerfully, and authentically.

You might not see it every day. But others will.
And in a world craving something real, the Spirit’s fruit is the loudest quiet message you’ll ever carry.

Ask Yourself:

• Which fruit comes easiest for me?
• Which one is God stretching in me right now?
• How can I lean into the Spirit more today?

Next Step:

If you’re serious about growth, start a “Fruit Check” journal every week, reflect on one fruit and ask:

“How did I live this out or not this week?”

Spiritual growth isn’t about perfection. It’s about progress. And you don’t walk it alone, the Spirit walks with you.

When Jesus rose from the dead, He didn’t just conquer sin and death. He also opened the door for us to live in a brand-new identity. We’re not who we used to be. We’ve been transformed, set apart, and empowered to live differently. Yet, in a world that constantly tries to define us, we need to be reminded of who God says we are.

Day 1: A New Creation

2 Corinthians 5:17 (NIV)
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”

Reflection:
You are not your past. You are not your failures, your mistakes, or even your greatest accomplishments. In Christ, you’ve been made new. The resurrection means that your old life is buried, and what rises with Him is a redeemed you.

Day 2: Chosen and Royal

1 Peter 2:9 (NIV)
“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession…”

Reflection:
You’re not invisible. God chose you. You have access to His presence like a royal priest, and He calls you His own. This isn’t based on how good you are, but on how gracious He is.

Day 3: Child of God

John 1:12 (NIV)
“Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.”

Reflection:
The resurrection isn’t just an event, it’s the doorway to a relationship. You’re not just a believer, you’re a beloved child. You have a Father who delights in you.

Day 4: God’s Masterpiece

Ephesians 2:10 (NIV)
“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works…”

Reflection:
You were handcrafted by God, not mass-produced by the world. You were created for purpose, unique, intentional, and beautifully equipped to reflect His glory.

Day 5: Free and Forgiven

Romans 8:1 (NIV)
“Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”

Reflection:
Shame is no longer your name. Condemnation no longer fits you. You’ve been forgiven, not because of your perfection, but because of His resurrection. Walk in freedom.

Day 6: Ambassador of Christ

2 Corinthians 5:20 (NIV)
“We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us.”

Reflection:
Your identity comes with a mission. You represent heaven on earth. In how you love, speak, and serve, you’re carrying His message to a world in need.

Day 7: Victorious in Christ

Romans 8:37 (NIV)
“No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.”

Reflection:
Because He rose, you rise too, not just to survive, but to overcome. You’re not a victim of your circumstances. In Christ, you’re victorious. Always.

Conclusion

You may forget who you are at times. Life may try to define you by your lowest moments. But God sees you through the lens of His Son, risen, redeemed, and radiant. When we know who we are in Christ, we begin to live like it. And when we live like it, the world sees Him in us.

School can be tough, whether you’re dealing with classes, friends, or figuring yourself out. The Bible offers timeless wisdom that can guide you through these experiences. Here are seven biblical wisdom nuggets, accompanied by scripture, to help you sail smoothly through school.

1. Seek God’s Wisdom First

Proverbs 2:6 (NIV): “For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.”

Before diving into your studies, seek God’s wisdom. Acknowledge that true knowledge comes from Him. When you prioritize God’s wisdom, you gain insights that go beyond textbooks, helping you make better decisions in both academic and personal matters.

2. Be Diligent and Hardworking

Proverbs 13:4 (NIV): “A sluggard’s appetite is never filled, but the desires of the diligent are fully satisfied.”

Success in school requires effort and perseverance. Laziness will lead to unfulfilled goals, but diligence brings rewards. Whether it’s studying for exams or working on projects, approach each task with a mindset of diligence, knowing that hard work pays off.

3. Practice Integrity in All Things

Proverbs 10:9 (NIV): “Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but whoever takes crooked paths will be found out.”

Integrity means being honest and having strong moral principles, even when no one is watching. Cheating on an exam or copying homework may seem like a shortcut, but it ultimately leads to trouble. Uphold integrity in your academic pursuits, and you’ll walk with confidence.

4. Surround Yourself with Wise Friends

Proverbs 13:20 (NIV): “Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.”

The company you keep influences your behavior and choices. Surround yourself with friends who uplift you, encourage your growth, and share your values. Wise friends will challenge you to be better and help you stay on the right path.

5. Trust in God’s Plan

Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV): “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

School can be overwhelming with its uncertainties and pressures. Trust that God has a plan for your life, even when things don’t go as expected. Whether you face disappointments or setbacks, believe that God is guiding you toward a hopeful future.

6. Manage Your Time Wisely

Ephesians 5:15-16 (NIV): “Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.”

Time management is crucial for balancing studies, extracurricular activities, and personal time. Use your time wisely, avoiding procrastination. Prioritize tasks and make the most of every opportunity to learn and grow.

7. Pray About Everything

Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV): “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

Prayer is a powerful tool in navigating school life. Whether you’re stressed about an upcoming test or unsure about your future, bring your concerns to God in prayer. Prayer brings peace and clarity, helping you stay focused and calm in all situations.

Conclusion

Applying these biblical wisdom nuggets to your school life can significantly enhance your experience. By seeking God’s wisdom, practicing diligence, maintaining integrity, surrounding yourself with wise friends, trusting in God’s plan, managing your time wisely, and praying about everything, you can navigate the challenges of school with confidence and grace. Remember, God is with you every step of the way, ready to guide and support you.

Navigating the complexities of life can be challenging, especially for young people who are still finding their way. The Bible offers timeless wisdom and guidance that can help shape a fulfilling and purposeful life. Here are some key Biblical tips for young people:

1. Seek Wisdom and Understanding

Proverbs 4:7 – “The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding.”

The pursuit of wisdom is highly valued in the Bible. Wisdom helps in making informed decisions, understanding the world better, and living a life that is pleasing to God. Young people are encouraged to seek wisdom and understanding, not only through formal education but also through life experiences and learning from others.

2. Honor Your Parents

Ephesians 6:1-3 – “Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. ‘Honor your father and mother’—which is the first commandment with a promise—’so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.'”

Respecting and honoring parents is a fundamental principle in the Bible. It fosters healthy family relationships and sets a foundation for a respectful attitude towards authority and elders.

3. Guard Your Heart

Proverbs 4:23 – “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”

The heart, in Biblical terms, is the center of one’s being, encompassing emotions, desires, and thoughts. Guarding your heart means being mindful of what influences you—your thoughts, feelings, and actions. It involves being cautious about the company you keep, the content you consume, and the activities you engage in.

4. Flee from Temptation

1 Corinthians 10:13 – “No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.”

Temptations are a part of life, but the Bible reassures that there is always a way to overcome them. Young people are encouraged to recognize their weaknesses, seek God’s strength, and make conscious efforts to avoid situations that might lead to sin.

5. Develop a Prayerful Life

Philippians 4:6 – “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”

Prayer is a powerful tool for maintaining a close relationship with God. It helps in finding peace, gaining strength, and seeking guidance. A prayerful life enables young people to stay connected to their faith and find solace in difficult times.

6. Cultivate Good Friendships

Proverbs 13:20 – “Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.”

The company you keep significantly influences your character and decisions. The Bible encourages surrounding yourself with wise and good-hearted individuals who uplift and encourage you to grow in faith and virtue.

7. Serve Others

Galatians 5:13 – “You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.”

Service to others is a core principle in Christianity. It teaches humility, compassion, and selflessness. Young people are encouraged to look beyond their own needs and contribute positively to the lives of others.

Conclusion

The Bible offers invaluable guidance for young people striving to live meaningful and virtuous lives. By seeking wisdom, honoring parents, guarding their hearts, fleeing from temptation, developing a prayerful life, cultivating good friendships, serving others, living with integrity, trusting in God’s plan, and staying humble, young people can navigate the complexities of life with faith and purpose.

Marriage is the foundation for the Christian family. Husband and wife and by God’s grace blessed with children. Whether you hope to marry one day or are already married it’s good to go to the Bible and learn about marriage.

1. Genesis 2:24 Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.

Marriage is mentioned already in creation. Whether you are already married or not, here are Bible verses to guide you to what the Bible says about marriage.

2. 1 Corinthians 7:2 But because of the temptation to sexual immorality, each man should have his own wife and each woman her own husband.

There are many kinds of temptations in the world. To be married is to give our love and loyalty to our husband or wife.

3. Ephesians 5:25 Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her

In a Christian marriage the husband is to love his wife as Christ loved us. This is to love even when it’s not deserved, unconditionally.

4. Colossians 3:18-19 Wives, submit to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. Husbands, love your wives, and do not be harsh with them.

Love between husband and wife includes for the husband to be gentle and giving himself up for his wife, and for the wife to submit to and respect her husband.

5. Exodus 20:14 You shall not commit adultery.

Loyalty and trust are fundamental in all relationships. In marriage that means to forsake all others and not have any other intimate relationships.

6. Matthew 5:27-28 You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart.

Jesus taught us that it’s not only the act of adultery that is breaking the commandment, but even lustful thoughts.

7. Ephesians 4:32 Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.

Although this verse speaks of the love between all Christians, it also applies to husband and wife. Forgive each other and be kind.