able
“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.”
Ephesians 3:20-21 ESV
No human mind can fathom the reality of all that God is able to do.
Martyn Lloyd-Jones said, “Our greatest trouble in the Christian life is our failure to realize that God is not man.” Think about it— there is no task too great for God, and yet we regularly underestimate what He can accomplish in our lives.
In this incredible doxology, Paul highlights a stunning reality of the immeasurable greatness of God. Throughout this letter, Paul has been expounding upon gospel truths, praying the Ephesians would be ‘filled with all the fullness of God’ (Eph 3:19). Paul celebrates the God who loved us enough to send his son to die for us so that we can be forgiven and set free. The God who not only brought redemption but broke down the wall of hostility between Jews and Gentiles, creating a new humanity in Christ.
As he does so, his heart and mind begin to overflow with praise to God— “Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think…”
What is on your heart today? What seems impossible?
Be encouraged, friend. God is able to do all we ask. There’s nothing beyond his power and ability. Such vast power and graciousness is worthy of endless praise. He is the living God, limitless and powerful in every way. He not only can but delights to answer the prayers of His children (Mt 7:11), and our faith is nourished each time we choose to fix our gaze upon Him.
Does this mean we will get every single thing we ever ask for? Well, no… but this passage directs us today to pray for God’s power to increase our faith and understanding, and to remember the gracious assurance that He will accomplish His good work within His people.
You do not have to go through this life alone; you need only to surrender and rely completely on Christ, trusting him to infuse you with strength beyond anything you could ever imagine.
To Him be the glory both now and forever,
Makenzi
additional reading:
Psalm 81:10 / Jeremiah 32:27 / Matthew 14:29-31 / James 4:2 / 1 Cor 2:9
reflect:
The God who exercises omnipotent strength to give us life deserves all the praise and glory we can give Him. Meditate on this incredible truth today.
How is this meant to shape your expectations of and hopes for what God will do in your life and heart?
In what ways can this passage help shape your understanding of how God’s power is at work in the lives of others?
How might this passage shape your prayers? For yourself, for your church, and for other believers around the world?
centering prayer:
Gracious God, pour out Your power, through Your Spirit, on my life and heart in order to help me better grasp the immense love You have shown me in Christ. Accomplish Your good work within me as I place my faith more and more in Your Son. Remind me that You, my Father, are able to do this good work in my life, for Your glory and for the good of those around me. In Jesus’ name, amen.
