For this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom his whole family in heaven and on earth derives its name. I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. Ephesians 3:14–19
This passage is the second of two prayers recorded in Ephesians, the first one being Ephesians 1:15–23
I love what Warren Wiersbe has to say about these prayers, “It is worth noting that both of these prayers, as well as the other prison prayers Philippians 1:9–11; Colossians 1:9–12 deal with the spiritual condition of the inner man, and not the material needs of the body.”
The apostle bows and offers a threefold prayer to God for these believers.
He prays that the Spirit will strengthen their inner beings. We try to Serve God, Live for God, Walk for God in our own strength.
He prays that Christ might be more and more at home in their hearts. Paul prayed that the believers might have a deeper experience with Christ, because only a deep experience could sustain them during the severe trials of life.
He prays that they might be able to grasp the full dimensions of God’s love. Paul’s concern is that we lay hold of the vast expanses of the love of God. He wants us to live in four dimensions: breadth, length, depth, and height.
Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen. Ephesians 3:20-21 KJV
I love the KJV words in these two verses. Look at it in outlined form:
Now unto Him that is able to do above all abundantly above all exceeding abundantly above all
This is my prayer for you who are in ministry … pastoring churches, ministering to youth and kids, and on the front line of the battle. I will call your name out to God and pray this prayer for the next month. If you have specific requests for your ministry or family, please share this post. Thanks for those who have.
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