Ephesians 3:16 I pray that out of HIS glorious riches HE may strengthen you with power through HIS SPIRIT in your inner being. [New International translation]
SUMMARY
Paul’s epistle (i.e., letter) to the Ephesians is the tenth book of the New Testament. Because of its rich theological themes, it has often been called “The Queen of the Epistles.” (William Barclay, 1976).
In Ephesians 3 Paul reveals the secret of strength. While most of us would look at the bulging arm muscles or leg muscles of a weight lifter and conclude that the person is strong or has strength, Paul notes that the strength of a person or a Christian is not based on how they “look” on the outside but rather strength comes from the “inner being.” Ephesians 3:16 tells us that the secret of strength is the presence of GOD’s HOLY SPIRIT or CHRIST within our lives.
In Ephesians 3:17, Paul suggested when CHRIST becomes so “at home” in our hearts that we become “rooted” and grounded (e.g., like a strong upright tree) in GOD’s marvelous love. In other words, if we “invite” HIM in and allow HIM to enter our lives and “abide” in HIM and HE in us, then we can become strong.
The importance of the “inner person” or “relying on the strength of the LORD” is referenced in a number of other scriptures:
Isaiah 40:29-31 HE gives power to the tired and worn out, and strength to the weak… they that wait upon THE LORD shall renew their strength. They shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.
2 Corinthians 4:16 That is why we never give up. Though our bodies are dying, our inner strength in THE LORD is growing every day.
Psalms 51:10 Create in me a clean heart, O GOD; and renew a RIGHT SPIRIT within me.
For Paul, focusing our attention on the “INNER PERSON” was important.
For Paul, unity with CHRIST, unity with the HOLY SPIRIT, the unity in using the gifts of THE HOLY SPIRIT and the unity of loving GOD and others is what makes us strong!
The unity with the POWER within us, allows us to do exceedingly, abundantly more than all we can ask for or image! Ephesians 3:20
CORE TRAINING AND EXERCISES
One of the secrets of greater balance, greater strength and improved posture is “core training.” Core training refers to those “inner” muscles that gird your trunk and your pelvis:
These muscles are like the body’s “girdle” or “corset.” These are the muscles that help you pull in your stomach, help you stand up straight and strengthen your back. They make you more stable inside so you can be more stable outside.
- The Bridge – The bridge helps strengthen the abodominal muscles and the muscles that support the spine. Lie flat down on a mat on your back and bend your knees so your feet are flat on the ground. Tighten your core and slowly raise your hips in an attempt to form a straight line between your chest and your knees. Do not arch your back. Keep your head on the ground. Hold for a few moments (e.g. try a mental count and see how far you comfortably go in good form), then slowly slower your yourself back down. Repeat serveral times. Take breaks as needed.
- Bent Arm Plank – Strengtens your core and improves balance. Lie on your stomach with your elbows directly under each shoulder and your forearms flat on the floor. Focus your eyes between your hands. Now lift your body, so your body forms a straight line from your head to your ankles. Your toes will stablize you in the back. Hold (e.g. try to mentally count and see how far you can comfortably go in good form), then slowly lower yourself back down. Repeat serveral times. Take breaks as needs. For an easier plank- Do the move up with your knees bent, and lift your hips so your body is straight from head to knees.
- Stomach Crunch – Lie on your back on a mat, with your knees bent and your feet flat on the ground. Place your hands on your thighs. Now slowly curl up toward your knees until your shoulders are about three inches off the ground. Hold for a few seconds and then slowly lower back down to the ground. Keep your eyes at the baseboard level to avoid neck strain. Repeat several times. Takes breaks as needed.
As always, if you have a medical condition, do not feel fit, do not feel well enough to perform these exercises, have balance problems or you do not exercise regularly, do not attempt any of the above exercises. Consult your personal physician about a proper exercise program tailored for you. Always consult your personal physician if you have medical issues, questions or are about to start an exercise program.
Remember to also stay hydrated.
STRENGTHEN YOUR SPIRITUAL CORE
Ever wonder how you, or your family or perhaps those around you in your places of worship are going to make it through the 2020 pandemic? Paul’s answer in Ephesian is: “GOD’s INNER STRENGTH.” Imagine GOD as our STRONG CORE! Imagine growing and getting stronger in THE LORD every day!
How? We just have to invite HIM in everyday, so that we too can be more rooted and grounded in GOD’s unity and love. So, today let us set aside your anxiety. Today let us pray for greater spiritual INNER STRENGTH! Let’s make GOD our CORE. Remember, GOD has the POWER to do exceedingly, abundantly more than we can ask or even image!
So, Pray. Let’s exercise our bodies and our faith. Read and study GOD’s WORD! Let’s learn to be wise, sensible and loving toward others. Let’s learn to love others and ourselves as much as GOD loves us! Let’s strive for unity—in GOD and with others.
BE strong! Strengthen your CORE And, BE BLESSED!
