SCRIPTURE: Ephesians 1:15-23
OBSERVATIONS
1. (vv.15-19) Even though Paul has heard about their strong faith and love, he still prays for the Spirit of wisdom to know Him better, and for their hearts to see the greatness of their hope and power in Him.
APPLICATION: I still need more of the Spirit, I still need to know Him better, I still need the eyes of my heart opened more; is this my daily prayer for myself and for those around me (family, friends, church)?
2. (vv.20-21) Jesus is seated on the throne now, in this age and the next, over every power and authority!
APPLICATION: I need to constantly remind myself that Jesus is Lord, no matter how things may look around me, and that everything is unfolding according to His plan.
3. (vv.22-23) The church (community of Christ followers wherever they are gathered) is His physical and spiritual presence on earth, and He rules everything for its sake, to build and strengthen His body.
APPLICATION: No matter how frustrating and disappointing the church may be, it is still body, and to love and serve Him, I must love and serve the church.
PRAYER:
Lord, I confess that I look at things in a defeatist way, instead of seeing You on the thrown, and the church as Your body. Give me more of Your Spirit to open my eyes, that I may know You better! Amen.
Paul tells us to pray for the spiritual bleesings we have when we place ourselves under Jesus Christ. We also need to pray for fellow Christians. Argue less: pray more for one another and we will see His richness and glory working within us. It is He who is at work in us all the time. God is not finished with me yet. I need to trust Christ Jesus for all my necessities. I need to come to Jesus who is my Source and Strength and Rock and Redeemer. When I am weak, He is strong. Help me Lord not to go in my strength and power but to focus my eyes upon You. My focus must not be on my mountains but upon God. It is not about me, but all for Jesus!
Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth
Thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide;
Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow,
Blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside!