Ephesians 3:12 In him and through faith in him we may approach God with freedom and confidence.

In Him and through faith in Him. This is an amazing concept. When we look at the Law of God we find only the plumb line of righteousness. The perfect and unmoving standard of all that is right. Problem is that in itself the Law consistently shows what a perfect life should be but does not shed any light on HOW to live up to it. It is like a meter of sorts like a gas gauge on your dashboard. It shows you how much gas you have in the tank precisely, but does nothing, not one whit to show you how to get gas or where to get gas or anything of the sort. The Law, like the gauge merely gives a snapshot of truth. Now when we look at the incomparable life of Christ we see not only the perfect example of how to live and how the Law is fulfilled in a human life but more importantly we have the indwelling power of the Holy Spirit to guide us and teach us and to empower us to lead holy and righteous lives. This is the paramount difference that separates our faith from all other creeds or religions. The Law which is the perfect standard coupled with the great grace of God to accomplish it. All for the benefit of fulfilling His purposes on earth and coincidentally as we do so we enjoy great peace and joy in ourselves. In Him and through Him.

APPLICATION
To seek to get self out of the way and allow the Holy Spirit to truly lead my life today.

Ephesians 3:11 according to his eternal purpose that he accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord.

It is comforting to know that the eternal purposes of God are being accomplished even despite the depravity of man, the free will of man and even the blatant militism of the new atheists. God's will will prevail on earth as it is in heaven. Our peace and fulfillment rely on our agreement with His purposes and even more so by attuning our lives to His purposes and our role in them.  A friend of mine asked the simple question: What would you do with your life if you knew that you only had 12 months to live. I replied to him that I would do exactly what I was doing and he agreed that he would as well. Then I mused that when you seek and find God's will for your life His purpose and your purpose align in the the things you pursue in your life and you have peace. It is for those that are not in tune with God's purpose that a question like this may stir all kinds of emotions like fear, regret and perhaps resistance.  God will not be mocked, His will will prevail so why not get in step with His Spirit and enjoy the ride?


APPLICATION
To have the confidence to know that God will work out all things to achieve His purpose and to be useful to Him with my word and deed in His accomplishing that today.

Ephesians 3:10 His intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms,

I find it quite interesting that Paul would know or presume to know the intent of God. Intent is a very difficult thing to perceive. So Paul with reliance on the Holy Spirit for inspiration has been given revelation of this truth. The unveiling of the mystery of God held quietly through the ages up until his writing of this epistle from that dark and dank Mamartine prison cell in Rome. There is much to be said about isolation and reflection in the quiet place where the still small voice of God may become amplified. Our modern existence is a difficult and continuous bombardment of input from every corner of our lives. To be one like Paul or Jesus who only spoke the words the Father has given should be the goal of every Christian.

APPLICATION
To be intentional in getting away to a quiet place today to reflect and listen to the voice of the Lord.