Summary: Paul wrote part of his prayer journal for these believers to read, so they would know he believed God could work in them to do His wishes. God can make them able; they need to be ready to act, not just talk and agree.

Martin Luther wrote a short letter to his barber in response to his desire to learn more about prayer.

Paul too records part of his prayer journal for these Ephesian believers to read, so they can see how firm his confidence is that they can overcome the natural tendencies self pushes us to, with the Spirit of God’s power after salvation.

We must seek God’s Spirit’s help to do His work.

1. For the Spirit to come with Strength (16-17)

Look for God’s riches, not reasons for weakness and excuses

Build “hearts” guided by the Spirit

Make Christ at home in the “heart,” not just mentioned with the mouth

2. Comprehend the Love of Christ (18-19a)

Rooted and grounded in love

Stable like a tree

Firmly resting on a foundation as a building

Moving toward an ideal beyond mere fact

3. Filled with the Fullness of God (19b)

Following God’s influence in every situation

Character transforms to mirror Christ’s

“Be therefore followers [imitators] of God…”

Ephesians 5:1a