God is Able

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….

Ephesians 3:20

Receiving a hand written letter feels like a gift of love! Writing one requires time, thought, and a signature—most often a simple signing with “Love Linda.”

Paul concludes each of his letters with something quite different, either a benediction or a blessing. His benediction for the letter to the Ephesians leaves me filled with encouragement and with freshened expectations of God: 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… (Ephesians 3:20).

I like the way the The Message: The Bible In Contemporary Language communicates the benediction: “God can do anything, you know—far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams! He does it not by pushing us around but by working within us, his Spirit deeply and gently within us (Ephesians 3:20-21).

I resist the temptation to compare what God accomplished through Paul’s life with what God might accomplish through mine. Circumstances, opportunities, and gifting combine to create my unique story. Stewarding my story requires yielding my life, time, talents, and spiritual gifts to Him, then trusting that He will work deeply and gently within me with His Holy Spirit.

The additional phrase in Paul’s benediction, far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams prompts me to continue to pray for such an amazing work of God through all believers, including me.

Father, thank You for Paul’s deep love for the Ephesians expressed in his prayer. Prompt me to pray with greater insight and confidence in Your unlimited ability to work gently and deeply within those You love. In the name of Jesus, the source of all love and power, I pray, amen.

Linda Lesniewski