Month: January 2023

Feast or Famine

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I think as Americans we are used to having so much we don’t understand what “the riches of His grace” being lavished on us means.  There are times when according to our definition, we go through famine.  Material wise that might be true.  This passage tells us of the lavish grace that gives us forgiveness.  I wonder if we realize how big God’s forgiveness is.  He doesn’t owe us forgiveness, but He gives freely and generously – a feast. 

I am so thankful for God’s generosity.  I will receive His forgiveness every time I ask (1 John 1:9).

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for lavishing forgiveness on those You have chosen. I am comforted by Your generosity.  Please help me to keep the proper perspective on Your generous forgiveness.

I pray this in Jesus’ name.

God is so good.

It’s NOT About Me

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Ephesians 1 tells us of wonderful gifts that God has given to those he has chosen.  I think we sometimes become selfish as a result of these gifts.  The point of the gifts is to point back to our precious Savior, Jesus Christ.

Dear Heavenly Father, please help us to use the gifts You have given to point others to You.  May You be honored because of Your glorious grace. 

I pray this in Jesus’ name.

God is so good.

Chosen for Adoption

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The first blessing we see in Ephesians 1 is that of being chosen for adoption.  Looking at the culture in Israel during Bible times adoption is a great honor.  The first-born son would inherit everything.  God adopts us as first-born sons.  I’m not sure how well it translates into the American culture that I know so well.  In Bible culture this was a very high honor.  I want to allow that concept to warm my heart living in what is often a cold, dark (sin-cursed) world.

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for choosing me to be an adopted child.  Thank You for the beauty of Your love.  Please help me to share this with those who know You chose them as well as those who have not learned of this wonderful gift.

I pray this in Jesus’ name.

God is so good.

Everything

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I appreciate how the book of Ephesians starts.  The praise to God is wonderful, but the reason for the praise catches my attention.  Those of us who have placed our trust in Christ have “every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places”.  The rest of the chapter gives more specifics about what those blessings are.

I think we as believers fall into the trap of thinking we don’t have everything we need.  However, God has told us through His Word that we do have what we need.  2 Peter 1:3 reiterates that fact.  I look forward to studying the book of Ephesians (amongst other passages) this year to remind me what God has provided.

Dear Heavenly Father, I praise You for the many blessings You give so freely.  I ask for guidance as I study what You have given.  Please help me to share the truth with others.

I pray this in Jesus’ name.

God is so good.