2026-10-12
The Ephesians had had the message of the Gospel preached to them, and they had believed it. Paul says that they were then marked with the seal of the Holy Spirit, who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it. This faith in the Lord Jesus Christ on the part of the Ephesians, and their love for God’s people, prompts Paul to give so much thanks on their account, and to continue praying for them, so that they may know: 1. God better, 2. the hope to which they have been called 3. the riches of God’s glorious inheritance and 3. his incomparably great power towards those who believe.
This is so beautiful to read and to think; that God has granted us all this in his love and mercy, and has accomplished it through the sacrifice and resurrection of his Son Jesus Christ. This ought to be a prayer for ourselves and the rest and whole of Christendom. That all who have said yes to Jesus might have their spiritual eyes opened and hearts enlightened in order that the may know God better and the great hope to which they have been called, and that they may know the riches of his glorious inheritance and his incomparable power towards all those who believe.
Despite all the trials and buffeting, this becomes a great encouragement, a reality worthy to stake our hope in, and to ever press towards. By saying yes to Christ we are then brought to behold the great sea of God’s riches and grace. We can then not be contented to just dip our toes alone in it, for it’s the one who actually swims who has much more fun and who will be happier and fulfilled. We believed the Gospel, but there’s so much yet to be known, and to be enjoyed. May God help us to be able to swim, and to drink. That is Paul’s prayer for the Ephesians, it ought to be ours too.
Merciful Father and Good Lord, praise be to you, for you have blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ Jesus. Thank you for the grace and mercy that in your love you extended to us before the foundation of the world. Now lead all those who have believed in you to behold the whole glory and splendor of the hope you have called us to. In Jesus Name. Amen.