GETTING STARTED
American newspaper publisher William Randolph Hearst built the nation’s largest newspaper chain in the 20th century. He was a multi-billionaire and also amassed a fortune in art, which he kept in a large warehouse. One day Hearst read about an incredibly valuable piece of rare art. Determined to own it, he sent his agents in search of the piece. Months went by before Hearst received word that the valuable art was found in his own warehouse. Ironically, Hearst was searching for something that he already possessed.
In this section of Scripture, Paul offers up a powerful prayer—one that will spare Christ followers the frantic search for something that they already possess.
- How often do you spend time thanking God for who he is and for what he richly offers in Christ? What difference would it make in your life if you did so on a regular basis?
READ THE WORD: EPHESIANS 1:15-23 (ESV)
15 For this reason, because I have heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love toward all the saints, 16 I do not cease to give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers, 17 that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of him, 18 having the eyes of your hearts enlightened, that you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, 19 and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power toward us who believe, according to the working of his great might 20 that he worked in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places, 21 far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and above every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the one to come. 22 And he put all things under his feet and gave him as head over all things to the church, 23 which is his body, the fullness of him who fills all in all.
English Standard Version, copyright 2001 by Crossway Bibles. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
DIGGING DEEPER
- Paul noticed two things about the people of Ephesus that led him to remember/pray for them. What are they? Do you notice these things in others, and does it stir your heart to pray for them?
- Paul prayed for the “the eyes of your hearts [to be] enlightened” (vs. 18). What habits need to be strengthened in your life to help you see God clearly?
- In verses 17-18, Paul prayed for several crucial things. What are they?
- Verses 19-20 point to the resurrection power of Jesus. How should these verses radically transform your understanding of what faith in Christ looks like?
- Paul’s prayer requests in this section of Scripture are for spiritual needs, not physical needs. How can this encourage you in praying for the spiritual well-being of those who are in your sphere of influence?
RESPOND TO GOD
God has made believers in Jesus spiritually rich. Today’s passage is a powerful prayer that highlights some of our present and future blessings in the Lord: the hope of our calling, our rich inheritance, and his resurrection power. It also showcases the preeminence of Jesus. 2 Peter 1:3 says, “His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.” Oh, that you would know Christ, who dwells in the lives of his followers, better!
- Using Paul’s prayer in Ephesians 1:15-23 as a model, lift up one person you care for in prayer to the Lord.
