Tuesday, March 6, 2012

That power is the same as the mighty strength 20 he exerted when he raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms

Ephesians 1

15 For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all God’s people, 16 I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. 17 I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit[f] of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. 18 I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people, 19 and his incomparably great power for us who believe. 

That power is the same as the mighty strength 20 he exerted when he raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, 21 far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every name that is invoked, not only in the present age but also in the one to come.  

22 And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, 23 which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.

Paul is praying that we truly understand the power available to those of us who believe.

[T]hat the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people, 19 and his incomparably great power for us who believe. 

I don't often enough appreciate the power made available to me.  This manifests itself in at least two ways:
  • I don't pray often enough
  • I don't pray for things big and small knowing that we should pray for big things because God can accomplish all AND we should pray for small things because God cares about everything, even the little things and we don't have to worry about his to-do list getting too long because this is NOT possible!
I need to recognize this power and pray more often and for things big and small.

My Prayer: Lord, I know You love me and I know You answer prayer as you have countless times both protected me and blessed me with answered prayer - as You always answer prayer.  You are a great and loving God and I desperately need You.  I am broken and sinful and I am disobedient.  Please forgive me for my neglectfulness and help me draw near to You.  Purify me and refine me Lord Jesus.  Help me pray all the time, every day and for things big and small.  Help me recognize and use the mighty power You make available to me.