Ephesians 1:18
“I pray also that you will have greater understanding in your heart so you will know the hope to which he has called you, and that you will know how rich and glorious are the blessings God has promised his holy people.”When my sweet dad suddenly passed away in 2001, he left very little to our family in terms of possessions or wealth. But the longer he is gone, the more aware I am of the greatness of my spiritual legacy. It was my dad who sparked my interest in spiritual life. He also deposited within me some generational gifts, such as love for people, a commitment to marriage and family, and a desire to honor Christ with my life. Over time I’ve come to understand, value, and claim the real legacy of my father’s life.
In the opening of Ephesians 1, Paul spoke about the power and purpose of our divine gifts and calling. Then in verse 18 he turns his attention from teaching to prayer. Paul, in effect, prayed for a greater spiritual inheritance. He didn’t ask for prosperity, influence, or position, but rather he prayed for enlightenment of the heart and the hope of our calling. He wanted us to lay hold of the blessings of God.
How many of us think of our heavenly inheritance according to the things we can see and measure, limiting our understanding of God’s goodness toward us? What if there is a greater legacy yet to be seen for those who love the Lord?
I challenge you to pray boldly Paul’s prayer over your own life. Ask the Lord for greater understanding of the blessings, promises, and plans that are hidden in His heart for you.