Freedom During CaptivitySample

EVERY SECOND YOU USE FEAR, YOU LOSE FAITH

I chose the entire Book of Ephesians as a reference because so many today feel they are chained or bound in some way. If some substance has a person addicted, that person is chained to the substance. If a person is in an abusive relationship, that person feels imprisoned. This book was penned by Paul from prison. As I wrote in an earlier devotion, I was blessed to go into one of the dungeons where Paul was held captive. Believe me, it was a dungeon—nothing like prisons today. So, when I read of his ministry, I am reminded of what he truly suffered. I know that his words written centuries ago can help readers today become free from whatever binds them.

In this chapter, Paul expresses the privilege it is to share the endless treasures available to us through Christ! Paul reveals God’s plan: Those who believe the Good News, will share equally in the riches inherited by God’s children, for we are part of the same body and have the promise of belonging to Christ Jesus. This is your eternal insurance policy, so-to-speak! 

CAN YOU RELATE?

Having experienced a worldwide pandemic first-hand, the lessons we learned will remain for a lifetime! Our normal was temporarily taken away during the pandemic and our spirits were made vulnerable. It not only took thousands of lives, but it caused a domino effect of problems all over the world. It sent many struggling into deep valleys of life.  

By going through rough valleys in our life, we learn valuable lessons and one is, that God wants His church to rise-up with wisdom and faith when in the valley. We have far more power from the heavenly forces than the forces of darkness to overcome any situation we face. 

I lost my brother from that dreaded disease, but COVID did not defeat him! Why? Because verse 12 of this chapter tells us that we have Christ, and with our faith in Him we can overcome anything! 

How? Boldly and confidently by retaining His Word. Believing He is with us and learning to thank Him even in the bad times! You may be thinking, he died from it, so how was that overcoming?  

I was with him when he died and his last words to me were, "Norm, never stop praying” and “Norm, it’s going to be glorious!" My brother overcame the fear of death and was ready for his new life to be in the actual presence of our Lord!  Whatever it is you are facing, you have that same power within you to get-up!

Paul ended this chapter with a beautiful prayer, interceding on our behalf, asking God to empower believers with His unlimited resources for inner strength!

WOW! DID YOU KNOW YOU HAVE UNLIMITED RESOURCES?

Are you using God’s unlimited resources for inner strength during your valley days? Verse 17 states that when we accept Christ as our Lord, He will take up residence in our hearts as you trust Him. Your roots will grow deep and strong with His love—and how deep that love truly is.

Paul ends his prayer with a blessing over us, (the church). "We are able, to do more than we might ask or think that we can, through God’s power." And this prayer, he prayed for all future generations.

Are you going to claim that blessing today? Especially during valley days of life? 

WHAT WE LEARNED TODAY FOR LIFE’S JOURNEY:    

• You are a benefactor of God’s inheritance.  
• Being a part of this inheritance, we have God’s promises.  
• As His church, we are to display wisdom.   
• We have far more power because we have Christ