How Can We Walk Worthy of Our Calling in Christ?

Walking worthy of the calling of a Christian is a theme deeply rooted in Scripture, demanding reflection on the life, teachings, and example of Jesus Christ. This concept is beautifully encapsulated in passages such as Ephesians 4:1, where Paul exhorts believers to “walk worthy of the calling with which you were called.” The daily devotional life of a Christian is central to achieving this goal. Yet, understanding how to implement this teaching requires exploring the scriptural foundation, its practical implications, and its profound relevance for Christian living.

Understanding the Call to Walk Worthy

The apostle Paul wrote extensively about the Christian’s calling, emphasizing both its privilege and responsibility. To walk worthy means to live in a way that reflects the grace and purpose of God. This calling originates not from human merit but from Jehovah’s divine initiative. As Paul states in 2 Timothy 1:9, God “has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace which was given to us in Christ Jesus before time began.”

The foundation of this calling is anchored in the transformative work of Christ. Romans 12:1-2 underscores the importance of offering oneself as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God. This is a deliberate and continuous act of worship, renewing the mind to align with God’s will. Similarly, 1 Peter 1:15-16 calls believers to be holy in all their conduct because God is holy. Holiness here is not merely a moral ideal but an expectation grounded in the character of God and the redemption provided through Christ.

The Example of Jesus in Walking Worthy

Central to walking worthy is the imitation of Jesus Christ. As Peter notes, Jesus left “an example, that you should follow his steps” (1 Peter 2:21). The gospels reveal a life marked by humility, obedience to the Father, love, and self-sacrifice. Philippians 2:5-8 poignantly describes Jesus’ attitude: though in the form of God, he humbled himself by taking on human likeness and becoming obedient even to the point of death.

This humility contrasts sharply with worldly values. Walking worthy involves rejecting pride, self-centeredness, and the fleeting pleasures of sin. It embraces servanthood and love for others, as exemplified in John 13:14-15 when Jesus washed the disciples’ feet, saying, “If I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet.”

Living Out the Worthy Walk: Practical Implications

The practical outworking of walking worthy is seen in how believers conduct themselves in their daily lives. Paul provides clarity in Ephesians 4:2-3, urging Christians to exhibit “all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love, endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” This passage highlights qualities that reflect the character of Christ and foster harmony within the body of Christ, the church.

One significant aspect of walking worthy is bearing spiritual fruit. Galatians 5:22-23 identifies the fruit of the Spirit as love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These virtues are not merely personal attributes but evidence of a life transformed by the Word of God. John 15:8 confirms this by declaring, “By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be my disciples.”

Furthermore, walking worthy entails a steadfast commitment to God’s truth. Psalm 119:105 describes God’s Word as “a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” In a world filled with moral relativism, Christians are called to be unwavering in their adherence to Scripture, which is “profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness” (2 Timothy 3:16).

Overcoming Life’s Difficulties

Walking worthy of the Christian calling does not mean a life devoid of challenges. Believers face hardships, but these are not divinely orchestrated tests or forms of punishment. Instead, life’s difficulties arise from living in a fallen world, where sin and its consequences abound. James 1:13 is unequivocal: “Let no one say when he is tempted, ‘I am tempted by God’; for God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he himself tempt anyone.”

Jehovah provides strength and guidance through these difficulties, enabling believers to remain faithful. Psalm 46:1 reminds us, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” Christians find encouragement in knowing that Jehovah is their sustainer, and his Word is their source of wisdom and comfort during challenging times.

Walking Worthy in the Church Community

Walking worthy is not an individual endeavor alone; it is intricately tied to one’s role within the church. The unity of the Spirit, as described in Ephesians 4:3, requires effort and intentionality. Believers must prioritize peace and reconciliation, recognizing that the church is the body of Christ (Ephesians 1:22-23). This understanding fosters mutual respect, submission, and love.

Colossians 3:12-14 provides a powerful exhortation for Christian conduct within the church: “Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do. But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection.”

Walking Worthy in Evangelism

Another crucial aspect of walking worthy is evangelism. Christians are called to be ambassadors for Christ (2 Corinthians 5:20), representing him through both their words and actions. This involves sharing the gospel with others, as commanded in Matthew 28:19-20, and living in a way that reflects the hope of salvation.

1 Peter 3:15 encourages believers to always be ready to give a defense for the hope that is in them, but “with meekness and fear.” This underscores the importance of both the message and the manner in which it is delivered. Walking worthy means being a witness to the transforming power of Christ, drawing others to him through a life of integrity and love.

The Ultimate Goal of Walking Worthy

The ultimate purpose of walking worthy is to glorify Jehovah. As Paul declares in 1 Corinthians 10:31, “Whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” This principle encompasses every aspect of life, from mundane tasks to spiritual disciplines. The believer’s life is a testimony to God’s grace, reflecting his character and advancing his kingdom.

Eternal life is the hope that sustains Christians as they walk worthy of their calling. Paul’s words in Philippians 3:13-14 encapsulate this forward-looking perspective: “Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”

In summary, walking worthy of the Christian calling is a comprehensive commitment to living in alignment with Jehovah’s will, reflecting Christ’s character, and advancing his kingdom. This journey requires humility, obedience, love, and perseverance, with the Word of God as the guiding light. It is a calling that transforms every aspect of life, bringing glory to Jehovah and fulfilling his purpose for his people.

You May Also Enjoy

Exploring Divine Intent: Did God Alter His Plan in Response to Satan and Human Rebellion?

About the Author

EDWARD D. ANDREWS (AS in Criminal Justice, BS in Religion, MA in Biblical Studies, and MDiv in Theology) is CEO and President of Christian Publishing House. He has authored over 220+ books. In addition, Andrews is the Chief Translator of the Updated American Standard Version (UASV).