Saturday, August 18, 2007
Ephesians 3:20-21 Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.
GOD'S GIFT -- HIMSELF
Here we see God's greatest gift to us, Himself. For though we were dead in our sins, God the Father breathed life into us through sending Jesus to die in our place. Now the resurrected Christ works in us with all the might of God at His disposal, the Holy Spirit strengthens us in our inner man, and the Father calls us His own family.
When a king is crowned, a special box is taken out of the treasury, an ornate box which holds the crown and scepter. When those treasures and symbols are placed on the new king, it brings that man glory.
But with God, things are different. When He takes from His royal treasure box and bestows His gifts on us, then He gets the glory. God's power is so great that He gains the glory as He gives to us out of His love.
So, let's ask for God to strengthen us out of His treasury, that His glory might shine before mankind all the more.
PRAYER
Father, we bow our heads before Your greatness. Give us the strength and understanding to "think outside of the box" -- the box of our current understanding of Christ's love. Expand our understanding of Your Son's great love for us through His dwelling in us. Send Your Holy Spirit to strengthen us. Root us in the Word of Christ's love, found us on Your Good News and help us truly to comprehend the greatness of Your glory and power, so that our trust in You might bring You more glory before the sons of men. And as our knowledge of You grows, Father, fill us with Your fullness. Amen.
