Prayerfully Re-Center around God
Ephesians 1:18b
I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order
that you may know… the riches of his glorious inheritance in
his holy people.
~ Apostle Paul
Pondering Point
While this snippet (1:18b) is drawn from a longer prayer, we focus on one piece today: As we refer back to Ephesians 1:14, we find that the Holy Spirit has been given to us as a deposit guaranteeing this rich inheritance. That Spirit is how God helps us see the riches of our inheritance as His children. As Christians, we are not to be characterized by chasing after riches in this world, but rejoicing in the riches we have in Christ now and for eternity. Presuming that we have competing desires within us, let’s review our attitude toward riches and abundance.
Ephesians 5:15-17
15 Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, 16 making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. 17 Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.
Review
When it comes to God, what riches do you seek? A deeper prayer life? Deeper knowledge of God’s Word? A deeper walk? More selfless service to others? Deep healing? Deep forgiveness? When it comes to your desires that compete with God, what do you seek an abundance of? Security? Comfort? Pleasure? Validation? Health? Vengeance? Justice? Significance? Friendships? Position? Accomplishment? Escape? Power? Reputation? If you had money, what would you do with it? How would it service your desire? How would it service God?
Repent if Necessary
Circle, highlight or write down the words that most relate to your desires and competing-with-God desires. Acknowledge any competing desires as first commandment issues (have no other gods before Me, Deuteronomy 5:7). If you have a few extra moments, ask God to give you insight into why these desires matter so much to you: What is it you’re really after in fulfilling these desires? Then have a conversation with Him about how you could let Him replace or meet those desires instead.
Return (as necessary)
Celebrate the truth of Psalm 27:9-10 that God continues to receive you, that He does not reject, nor forsake, nor turn away from you in anger. Ask Him teach you His ways and help you to let your Godly desires rule the day.
Psalm 27:9-10
- Do not hide your face from me,
do not turn your servant away in anger;
you have been my helper.
Do not reject me or forsake me,
God my Savior. - Though my father and mother forsake me,
the Lord will receive me.