Exploring Thriving Through EphesiansSample

Paul has shown us how thriving in our walk with Jesus begins with an understanding of who we are in Jesus' eyes. That list of descriptors from chapter 1 paints an amazing picture of how we appear when the Father looks through the lens of Jesus' blood. Those truths about us, as those who have "believed in Christ", give us the confidence to boldly approach our Father's throne.

Then he gives us an intimate example of his bold ask of the Father. He kneels before the Father on our behalf. He is so passionate about his children in the faith being well rooted and growing that he labors (continuously from chapter 2) in prayer for us.

He prays that God's Spirit will dwell in our hearts. You might be asking, how is this different from chapter 1 where we are guaranteed that we are already sealed by the Spirit when we believed? I get the idea here from Paul that he wants the Spirit to have a seat right in the center of our being. Dwelling. He's made Himself at home and has access to all of us. All of our thoughts, actions, and attitudes. He is in command central and calling the shots. 

He begins His transforming work by helping us to understand first and foremost the deep, wide love that God has for us. He wants us to be filled up with the knowledge of how loved we are to the extent that it gives us security, it gives us peace, and it moves us to actions that reflect His glory and grace.

He finishes up by pointing our hope and our vision to God who can do "immeasurably more" than anything we could even conceive of. This is the God who lives inside of us. This is the God who empowers us to work the 'good works' He planned for each of us. This is the God who goes with you as you leave this morning.

Where do you need God's "immeasurably more" power in your own life?

What are the areas in your life where the Spirit may reside but isn't quite 'dwelling'- isn't the one in charge?