Ephesians 4:2

With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love;

Ephesians 4:2 (KJV)

Context

The apostle Paul wrote Ephesians to the church in Ephesus, emphasizing the unity of believers in Christ and giving instructions for living a life worthy of their calling. This verse begins a practical section on how believers should walk, rooted in the grace they have received.

Meaning

The verse calls for “lowliness,” which is humility—a modest view of oneself and a recognition of our need for God’s grace. It means considering others more important than ourselves, as Paul also teaches in Philippians 2:3.

“Meekness” is often mistaken for weakness, but it is strength under control. It involves gentleness, patience, and a willingness to submit to God’s will and the needs of others. Jesus described Himself as “meek and lowly in heart” (Matthew 11:29), and His followers are called to imitate His character.

“Longsuffering” is patience in enduring difficult circumstances or people. It means bearing with the faults and weaknesses of others without being easily provoked to anger. This mirrors God’s own patience toward us, as 2 Peter 3:9 reminds us.

“Forbearing one another in love” means to bear with, tolerate, or show patience toward one another, recognizing that we are all imperfect and in need of grace. This forbearance is not merely tolerance; it is active, selfless love that seeks the best for others and enables us to extend grace and forgiveness to those who have wronged us.

Biblical connections

These virtues are not isolated but work together to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace, as the next verse (Ephesians 4:3) makes clear. The Greek word for lowliness, tapeinophrosynē, appears in other passages like Colossians 3:12 and 1 Peter 5:5, all emphasizing humility as essential for Christian community.

Application

In daily life, this means choosing humility when we would rather assert ourselves, exercising gentleness when we feel provoked, and showing patient endurance when others disappoint us. Forbearance in love calls us to forgive and support one another, even when it is costly, because Christ has first borne with us.

Reflection

Consider one relationship where you struggle to be lowly, meek, longsuffering, or forbearing. How might you demonstrate these virtues this week, not in your own strength, but relying on the Spirit who enables you to walk worthy of your calling?