20 Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us,
Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us,
Setting the Scene for Ephesians 3:20-21
In Ephesians chapter 3, we find the apostle Paul writing to the church in Ephesus from his prison cell. As he pens this letter, he is surrounded by Roman guards, confined yet undeterred in his faith and commitment to spreading the gospel. The dimly lit cell is a stark contrast to the vibrant message of hope and encouragement that Paul is conveying to the believers in Ephesus.
Among the guards and fellow prisoners in the cell, Paul is joined by his scribe, Tychicus, who is diligently transcribing his words. The atmosphere is heavy with the weight of Paul’s circumstances, yet there is an undeniable sense of peace and purpose that fills the space as he writes about the immeasurable power of God at work in the lives of believers. Despite his physical limitations, Paul’s spirit soars as he reflects on the boundless love and grace of God, culminating in a doxology of praise and adoration in Ephesians 3:20-21. The scene is a testament to Paul’s unwavering faith and the transformative power of God’s love in the midst of adversity.
What is Ephesians 3:20-21 about?
This verse from the Bible, found in Ephesians 3:20, beautifully captures the awe-inspiring power and limitless capacity of God. It reminds us that God’s abilities far exceed our human understanding and imagination. How often do we limit our prayers and expectations, failing to fully grasp the magnitude of what God can accomplish in our lives? This verse serves as a powerful reminder that God is capable of doing infinitely more than we could ever ask or even dare to imagine.
When we meditate on the truth of this verse, it prompts us to reconsider the limitations we place on God in our prayers and in our lives. Are we underestimating God’s ability to work miracles, provide for our needs, and fulfill our deepest desires? We are invited to surrender our doubts and fears and approach God with boldness and expectancy by acknowledging and trusting in His limitless power and capability. We reflect on the immeasurable greatness of God and offer Him the glory and praise that is rightfully His, both now and for all eternity.
Understanding what Ephesians 3:20-21 really means
Understanding their context within Paul’s letter to the Ephesians is essential to delve into these verses. Paul concludes a profound prayer in these particular verses, emphasizing God’s boundless power and glory. This doxology serves as a powerful reminder of the divine attributes we often overlook in our daily struggles and triumphs.
Divine Power Beyond Imagination
The phrase “able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine” speaks volumes about the omnipotence of God. Paul wants us to recognize that God’s capabilities far exceed our human limitations. This isn’t just about receiving blessings but understanding that God’s plans and actions are beyond our wildest dreams. Reflect on Jeremiah 29:11, “For I know the plans I have for you,” which underscores that God’s intentions are always for our good, even when we can’t see the bigger picture.
Connection to the Inner Power
The verse continues, “according to his power that is at work within us.” This highlights the presence of the Holy Spirit in each believer. The same power that raised Christ from the dead resides in us (Romans 8:11). It’s a reminder that we are not left to navigate life on our own; we have divine strength and guidance within us. How often do we tap into this inner power in our daily lives?
Glory to God in the Church
Paul emphasizes, “to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus.” The church is not just a building but the collective body of believers. This phrase calls us to live in a way that brings glory to God, both individually and collectively. Jesus Himself emphasized this when He said, “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16). These verses remind us to shift our focus back to God’s infinite power in today’s fast-paced world where we often rely on our abilities and resources. It’s easy to be overwhelmed by challenges, but remembering that God can do more than we can imagine provides comfort and hope. You faced a seemingly insurmountable obstacle and found a solution beyond your expectations. This is a glimpse of God’s immeasurable power at work.
A Personal Anecdote
There was a woman in our congregation who faced a dire financial crisis. She prayed earnestly, but the situation seemed hopeless. Unexpectedly, she received a job offer that not only resolved her financial woes but also aligned perfectly with her skills and passion. This experience was a testament to God doing “immeasurably more” than she could have asked for or imagined, reinforcing the power of these verses.
Conclusion
Ephesians 3:20-21 calls us to acknowledge God’s limitless power and to glorify Him through our lives. It challenges us to rely on the divine strength within us and to live in a way that honors God. Reflect on these verses to consider how you can better trust in God’s plans and exhibit His glory in your daily actions.
How can we fully trust in God’s power?
We can fully trust in God’s power by understanding that He is able to do immeasurably more than we could ask or imagine. This means that His power goes far beyond our comprehension and abilities, allowing us to have confidence in His ability to work in ways that are beyond our understanding. We can fully trust in Him to accomplish great things in our lives by recognizing that God’s power surpasses our limitations. We can trust in God’s power by acknowledging that He works according to His will and purposes. This means that His power is not limited by our circumstances or limitations, but is instead guided by his wisdom and perfect plan for our lives. When we align our trust with God’s sovereignty and divine plan, we can have full confidence in His power to bring about goodness and blessings in our lives. Having faith and belief in God’s ability to work all things for our good ultimately requires us to fully trust in His power. We can rest in the assurance that His power is at work in our lives by surrendering our doubts and fears to Him, even when we may not see or understand it. Trusting in God’s power means letting go of our need for control and instead relying on His strength and provision to carry us through any circumstance or challenge that we face.
Application
Think of Ephesians 3:20-21 as your daily fuel, like the coffee that powers your mornings or the efficiency that drives your workday. Recognize that God’s power in your life is beyond anything you can imagine, ready to surpass your greatest expectations. Let this belief push you to pray boldly and act courageously. Will you let this divine energy propel you forward, trusting in God’s ability to achieve greatness through you?
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.