Ephesians 3:14–21 ‘I pray that you… may… grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ…’ (vv17–18)
Reading this passage in Ephesians encourages us to grasp the depth of the love of God, in Christ Jesus.
Once we do, says the apostle Paul, we can be ‘filled to the measure of all the fullness of God’ (v19)! What would it be like for us to be filled with God’s fullness?
In this passage is also found the astonishing promise that He is ‘able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us’ (v20).
It is God who works in us to fulfil His plans; He is the One who changes us so we increasingly walk in this world in Christ’s likeness.
In Philippians 3:10, Paul tells us that he wants to know Jesus and the ‘power of his resurrection’ at work in Him; he also wants to take part in His sufferings, and maybe that is the part we balk at!
Following Jesus is not easy. The fullness of life He promises means we may find ourselves swimming against the current tide.
God’s kingdom has different values to those which we may experience in a secular culture. But as we grow closer to Jesus, we know that God will never fail us; He doesn’t forsake us (Heb. 13:5).
In Ephesians 2:6 we are reminded of our spiritual position: ‘seated’ with Christ, resting in His finished work for us on the cross.
Things may get tough on earth, but the life He gives us is abundant and free; it is also eternal, for we have the Eternal One living in us.
So, along with strength and power to endure, let’s also pray for revelation of the depth of His love for us.
A Prayer To Make:
‘Jesus, show me Your love today, for myself and others; help me to grow in the fullness You promise. I know I don’t have to strive, but just receive Your love. Amen.’
An Action To Take:
How might having a greater revelation of God’s love strengthen you in any trials you are going through today? Spend some time in worship and then, quiet listening.
Scripture To Consider:
Ps. 73:1–28; Isa. 25:1–9; John 14:1–14; 1 Cor. 13:1–13
