Beyond what you can imagine! - January 1, 2012

²⁰ Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, ²¹ to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.

Ephesians 3:20

History and Context:

The book of Ephesians is quite different than the other letters written by Paul. Due to it's lack of personal greetings, many scholars see it more as a written sermon than an actual letter. In fact, it is likely that it was actually written to multiple churches in the area of Ephesus and was meant to be passed around from church to church. Paul wrote this letter from jail, as he did with Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon. One of his largest messages in the book of Ephesians is the plan of God to bring every nation and background together in Christ. As in many other places there was probably great conflict between the Gentiles and the Jewish Christians, so Paul stressed that for God there is no nationality. He wants to bring all to Him.

The Text:
This is the end of a prayer, starting in verse 14, which Paul says that he is praying for the Ephesians. He asks that their spirits be strengthened, that they would be grounded in love, and that Christ would dwell in their hearts. He then finishes the prayer by glorifying God, the one who can do beyond what we could imagine. But it wasn't enough for him to sday simply beyond what we can ask or think, but Pauls said exceedingly, abundantly beyond! Way more than we could ever imagine, and He does it through the power that is already in us.

The Challenge:
Increase your expectations! Yesterday we talked about finding God's vision for the new year well think big, think great! Don't limit God and don't limit yourself, because by limiting yourself you limit God. He is able and willing to do more than you are thinking, so let Him do it. Let Him fulfill His plan in your life. It will not fail, it will not fall short, and it will not be what you are thinking or expecting.

The Prayer:
Lord, I give all my plans and my desires to you. Do what you will. Surprise me! I love you Lord and I want to follow you wholeheartedly! In Jesus' name, Amen!