What does "according to His power at work within us" mean for believers? The limitless promise of Ephesians 3:20 “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,”. Context of the phrase - Paul has just prayed that believers be “strengthened with power through His Spirit in the inner being” (Ephesians 3:16). - The focus is God’s ability, not human effort. - The measure of what God can do is tied directly to the power He has already placed inside His people. Defining “His power” - The same power that raised Jesus: “the immeasurable greatness of His power toward us who believe… which He exerted in Christ when He raised Him from the dead” (Ephesians 1:19-20). - The Holy Spirit Himself: “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you” (Acts 1:8). - A present, personal force, not a distant concept. How this power operates “within us” - Regeneration: the Spirit makes us alive (Titus 3:5). - Sanctification: “for it is God who works in you to will and to act on behalf of His good purpose” (Philippians 2:13). - Spiritual gifts: “There are different kinds of working, but the same God works all of them in all men” (1 Corinthians 12:6). - Strength to endure: “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength” (Philippians 4:13). Practical implications for daily life - Confidence in prayer: we ask boldly because His indwelling power is the measure of His answer. - Victory over sin: we resist temptation by relying on His strength, not sheer willpower (Romans 8:11-13). - Courageous witness: the Spirit equips ordinary believers to speak and serve effectively (2 Timothy 1:7-8). - Hope in trials: hardships become platforms for God’s extraordinary work (2 Corinthians 4:7-9). Living out the reality 1. Remember—regularly rehearse what Scripture says about His indwelling power. 2. Yield—submit choices, attitudes, and schedules to the Spirit’s leading. 3. Ask—pray specifically, expecting God to work beyond natural limits. 4. Act—step forward in obedience, trusting His power to supply what you lack. Encouraging reminders from other passages - Colossians 1:29: “To this end I also labor, striving with all His energy working powerfully within me.” - 2 Peter 1:3: “His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness.” - Isaiah 40:29-31: “He gives power to the faint… those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength.” His power is not merely around us—it is within us, energizing transformed, confident, hope-filled lives that display what only God can do. |
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