I pray that, according to the riches of his glory, he may grant that you may be strengthened in your inner being with power through his Spirit, and that Christ may dwell in your hearts through Faith, as you are being rooted and grounded in love. I pray that you may have the power to comprehend, with all the saints, what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, so that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. Ephesians 3: 16-19 NRSV
What a wonderful prayer!
Paul is praying for the church in Ephesus to be made strong by God's power in the Spirit, that Christ would be at the center of their lives and hearts, and that they would be able to fully understand Christ's love for them.
It is also wonderful to hear what Paul is NOT praying for this church.
He isn't asking that their membership increase.
He does not petition God for their financial well-being.
He doesn't pray that their leaders be inspired and influential.
He is not even asking that their outreach programs be successful.
Paul prays that the church be strengthened with the strength that comes only from the Spirit's power. Paul prays that Christ dwells within them. Paul prays that they are filled with Christ's love. Paul prays that this church understands the incomprehensible love of Christ.
Paul asks for love and strength in Christ.
Simple.
Direct.
Absolutely necessary for any church. Even yours.
God, I pray that, according to the riches of your glory, you may grant that we may be strengthened in our inner being with power through the Spirit, and that Christ may dwell in our hearts through faith, as we are being rooted and grounded in love. I pray that we may have the power to comprehend, with all the saints, what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, so that we may be filled with all the fullness of God. In Christ's name. Amen.
Question for the day: What are you praying for your church?
Copyright 2009 Amelia G. Sims
Thank you for this devotional Amelia. It is so true. It would be amazing if the church could let go and let God. Quit praying for financial stability, increased membership, etc. Just pray for his love and guidance and let Him do the rest. I wonder what would happen if we followed Paul's lead.
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