For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. Ephesians 1:15-19 Mention is made in this passage of great faith combined with love - the only way each works is in tandem with the other. The author, the apostle Paul, understands these believers behave thus, and he feels they are ready for more of Jesus. Notice that to "know Him (Jesus) better," requires supernatural assistance. The sweat of the brow, gritty determination and one's own bootstraps are noble - but wholly inadequate. The Holy Spirit of God is a must! These Ephesian believers were obedient and faithful and full of Christ's love - now the Holy Spirit can work with that - and He can show you more, with His wisdom and His revelation. Do you want to know Jesus more intimately? Ask the Spirit, ask specifically and He will guide you. He has no greater work than this. As you take these steps, He will also begin to illuminate the future of God's plan for you. You will be able to discern the great hope God has for you, the riches of your future with Him, and the unequalled power available to those who relinquish all power to Him. Carefully remember the beginning of this wonderful trail: faith, love and prayer are the keys, just as Jesus depicted for us. In prayer, you must always follow the apostle's example and "keep asking" (ref. passage above and Matthew 7:7, Luke 11:9). The example is there for all to see - faith, love and continuous prayer; these three will fashion the living stones, the building blocks that will be used to complete Christ's kingdom perfectly. |
The Building Blocks of Jesus' Kingdom A Devotion The Goodsoil Discipleship Ministry By Bro. Andy Madonio September 29, 2006 |
