Scripture:
Ephesians 3:18-19 – may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with the fullness of God.
Observation:
Paul has just told the Ephesians not to lose heart for his suffering for the sake of the gospel. The glory of the gospel outweighs his suffering and he is encouraging the Ephesians with a prayer for spiritual strength. Paul’s request is that they and all believers may have the spiritual strength to know the overwhelming, never ending and unfathomable love of Christ. When you do recognize the immeasurable love of God through Christ, that itfills you from the fullness of God.
Application:
1 John 4:19 says, “We love because he first loved us.” I must remember the breadth, length, height and depth of God’s love for me that he sent Jesus to the cross in my place. When we place our faith and trust in Christ, as believers we receive the power of the Holy Spirit within us. Paul is praying for the Spirit to give strength beyond understanding to have the same power that raised Jesus from the dead in our hearts. As I walk with Jesus and receive the powerful love that God has given me by His grace, then I am filled and in position to pour his love out to others. Only the love of God through Christ and the Spirit within us has the power to change the brokenness in our hearts. Changed hearts, change lives and they love one another. This love and mercy which can’t be explained by academic standards of knowledge is the essence of the Christian life.
Prayer:
Father,
Thank you for your overwhelming, never ending love, grace and mercy you give to me each and every day. Let the power of the Holy Spirit give me strength to comprehend, receive your love and share it with others to give you the glory!