Ephesians 1:15-23
For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all God’s people, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is the same as the mighty strength he exerted when he raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every name that is invoked, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way. Ephesians 1:15-23 (NIV)
I don’t know how many times, or how many different versions of this passage I have read, but I’ve struggled on how to write a meaningful devotional about it. There is so much to unpack, and I kept trying to winnow these nine verses down to a single thought or lesson. I Googled Paul’s Prayer to the Ephesians, read a half dozen articles about how this might be one of the bible’s most perfect prayers, and the magnitude of this scripture and its message is imposing. But, as I was re-reading it for about the hundredth time (not exaggerating), one line suddenly jumped out at me. “I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened…” Ephesians 1:18 (NIV)
And just like that, the words of Michael W. Smith’s praise song came to mind.
Open the eyes of my heart, Lord,
Open the eyes of my heart.
I want to see you.
I want to see you.
What an image that makes—the eyes of my heart. Paul is praying that we see with love, we understand with compassion, and we hope with the full knowledge and power of Christ’s glory. While his language is formal and poetic—not the words I use when I talk to God—Paul’s prayer is perfect. It’s the prayer—it’s my prayer—of thanksgiving for believers everywhere and the desire for them, and for me, to know, live, and trust in the power of Christ.
Questions for Reflection
- Sometimes scripture can be used to initiate your conversations with God. Are there particular bible verses that speak to you, that help you when you don’t have the right words to begin?
- Paul prays for all believers, but most of us pray for personal reasons—for specific concerns and outcomes. Some prayers, though, seem to go unanswered. How does God’s glory shine through those as well?
Prayer
Open my eyes and my heart, gracious God. Help me to truly see you and discern the truth of your Word. Let thankfulness temper all my thoughts and actions so that I may glorify you always.
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