Spiritual PowerSample

Spiritual power comes as we recognize our identity as God’s children.

Paul’s prayer in Ephesians 3 is offered on behalf of a group of Christians who are facing discouragement. In offering this prayer, after having addressed the Father, Paul then reminds these discouraged Christians that this Father is the one that every family in heaven and on earth derives its name from. 

"Therefore I ask you not to lose heart at my tribulations on your behalf, for they are your glory" (Ephesians 3:13). 

In other words, Paul is telling these struggling believers in the midst of their despair, that they are still family—the sons and daughters of the Heavenly Father. The good news for us as believers is that, regardless of the nature of our struggles, we have access to a powerful Father who listens to and cares for the needs of His children. As it says in Hebrews, 

“Let us draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:16).

Are there any circumstances or trials in your life that are causing you to “lose heart?” Take a moment, like Paul, to “bow the knee” before the Father and lift up your needs to Him. 

If you would like to hear more from Dr. Tony Evans, click here  to download a sermon titled "Perfected by the Spirit."