07/22/2020 INNER STRENGTH
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