Scripture:       Ephesians 1:15-23        Commentary 1:15-23

I also pray that you will understand the incredible greatness of God’s power for us who believe him. This is the same mighty power that raised Christ from the dead and seated him in the place of honor at God’s right hand in the heavenly realms (Ephesians 1:19-20, NLT).

“. . . how tremendous is the power available to us who believe in God” (Ephesians 1:19b, J. B. Phillips, The New Testament in Modern English, 1962 edition by HarperCollins).

Observation:

Paul is exhorting his readers who are already strong in faith to continue growing. Although they have every spiritual blessing (v.3), Paul constantly prayed for them to gain spiritual wisdom and insight, to grow in their knowledge of God, and to understand the confident hope that God has given them. Finally, he prayed that they would understand the tremendous power that is available to believers.

Application:

Being “strong in faith” is not a destination; it’s a byproduct of continually seeking God in prayer. I have tremendous power available to me for the asking. I can be confident that God will freely make himself known to me and give me wisdom and insight. Christ is in control of all things (v.22); no situation of mine—past, present, future—escapes his notice or is beyond his power to affect. The limitations are mine when I fail to “avail” myself of his tremendous power.

Prayer:

Father, forgive me for reacting ineffectually to situations by not availing myself of your great power. Forgive me for neglecting to pray constantly for other believers. Take away my despair; fill me with hope. Keep me confident of Christ’s authority over every circumstance of my own and others’ lives. Grant me your wisdom and insight so that I may know you better and be made full and complete by your Son in whose name I pray, Amen.

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