Ephesians 3:14-21

I feel that as the first post to this changed blog its great to use my favorite passage. Ephesians 3:14-21 is a favorite because of its wonderful message.

(TNIV) "14 For this reason I kneel before the Father, 15 from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name. 16 I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being. 17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you being rooted and established in love, 18 may have power, together with all the Lord's people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, 19 and to know this love that surpasses knowledge-that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. 20 Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us 21 to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen."

This passage has so many awesome things to say! It first reminds us of the honor and respect that we owe to God because it is through him that we live. I think that we often forget how involved God is in our lives even if we do not honor him. Paul is praying blessings among the church of Ephesus, and he is praying that God will give them strength. What a wonderful thought for me... a mom with a rambunctious 3 yr old. There are many days that I lack strength. This passage helps me to think about what types of things do I use to provide me with a false sense of strength. Hmmm, coffee is the first thing that comes to my mind. I wonder what would happen if I truly relied upon God for the same kind of strength that coffee provides me, hmm.

We are encouraged that Christ dwells in us... wow... there's a thought. Also he points out the importance of our committment to love one another.. and through this love for each other we find that our understanding of God's love comes into a greater focus. Even our knowledge really doesn't grasp how great God's love is for us, and without this love beyond our understanding we are unable to truly love others. There are many times that I feel frustrated with the actions of my 3 yr old. This is a reminder that I need to ask God to fill me with His love for my son. I also find that I can get frustrated with others and have a difficult time forgiving them. I need to ask God to give me understanding, love and forgiveness.

Verse 20 is my ABSOLUTE FAVORITE... we give glory to God because we recognize that He is able to so much more than we usually give Him credit for! Believing this is so crucial. It helps us to realize that God is in control of our life circumstances even when things seem to being so chaotic. He is using all experiences to teach me things so that I can use that knowledge for His honor and glory.

thanks for readin... may God bless your steps