Ephesians 1-C “In the Heavenly Places”

S = 1:3-4 “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places, even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him.”

O = We have been blessed with every spiritual blessing—already—nothing is lacking for us to be holy and blameless before God. It is amazing that he chose us before the world was created. This passage in Ch. 1 focuses on whose we are—predestined in love for the glory of God and for the praise of his grace. He has given me a name, a citizenship, and a purpose.

A = Can I grasp the significance of being “predestined in love” and how that should color how I live each day? I should not feel like I am left out or missing something God would want me to receive. I have all blessings…but where are they? If they are in heavenly realms, then how often do I focus my heart heavenward? I too often get discouraged by the dismal grey outlook of circumstances, my emotional response to them, and my lack of practiced trust in the promises of God. I need to live as though I am greatly loved and richly blessed…because I am! This should help me to live into the idea that God can make a difference in someone else this week through me. Wow! All I do this week should be done for the praise of God not my own satisfaction…and ironically the end result is a deeper satisfaction.

P = O Lord, help me to direct my thoughts heavenward today—give me eyes to see how you have loved me and blessed me. You chose me before the world was made! I am important to you! May I live blameless in grace before you today and always. Amen.