God’s will in our lives
“In him we have obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to the purpose of him who works all things according to the counsel of his will.” Ephesians 1:11 ESV.
Sometimes, we can feel very overwhelmed by our responsibilities and forget that our sovereign and loving God and has a plan in store for us. Paul tells us here that our inheritance is predestined to us, in accordance with his will.
We should take comfort in this plan, especially in turbulent times such as these. Take heart, for though uncertainty and chaos may seem to surround us, our God will bring order in his own time.
Stay safe, be patient and remember that the Lord our God is our strength and shield.
Preparation and prayer
Ephesians 6:17–18: “And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints.”
Spiritual warfare is a very real part of our Christian lives. This battle fought spiritually, is naturally fought with spiritual weapons. Previously in Ephesians 6, Paul details various parts of armour and attaches spiritual values to each one. (Ephesians 6:10-16)
In the end, he concludes with the word of God and prayer, every Christian’s most powerful resources.
Prayer is to become a permanent fixture in every Christian’s lives, as emphasised by Ephesians 6:18 “praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication.”
When going into battle, we need to be as prepared as possible, and Paul’s advice here is that prayer is one of the best ways to prepare our hearts and mind for spiritual warfare. Are you ready?
United in Christ
Design: Joshua Wong
The first 10 verses of Ephesians 4 describe the concept of Christian unity and the importance of working together for God’s glory. All of us are uniquely created and gifted by God to serve him and each other to the best of our abilities.
Even though we may know this, we may sometimes find it difficult to put our knowledge into practice. Believers can come from any culture, any background, all walks of life. Regardless of our differences, we are called to love each and every believer as family.
Ephesians 4:2 is Paul’s instruction on overcoming these differences. We are to approach one another with humility, gentleness and patience. Pride and impatience have no place in the body of Christ and will only cause disharmony and chaos. As 1 Thessalonians 5:11 says “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”
Make Use of Every Opportunity
Photo by Mantas Hesthaven. Design by Jonathan Yao.
“15 So be careful how you live. Don’t live like fools, but like those who are wise. 16 Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days.” – Ephesians 5:15-16 (NLT)
As God’s stewards, how should we use “every opportunity” (Greek, kairos) that He has given to us? Pastor Bob Heerspink has the following to say.
Unimaginable Power Given Through God’s People
“20 Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, 21 to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.” ~ Ephesians 3:20, 21, NLT.
God has given unimaginable power through His people to bless and do good! Have you tapped on His power to bless others?
Artwork by Jonathan Yao
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