[Day 1] Ephesians 1: A Letter of Grace and Spiritual Blessings

The book of Ephesians is a profound and powerful letter written by the apostle Paul to the church at Ephesus. It is filled with rich theology and deep insights into the Christian faith. The first chapter highlights the incredible grace and spiritual blessings that believers have received through Christ Jesus. Join me as we spend the next 5 days walking through Chapter 1. :)

Day 1: The Marvelous Grace of God

Read Ephesians 1:1-8
"Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, To the saints who are in Ephesus, and are faithful in Christ Jesus: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. 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. In love he predestined us for adoption to himself as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will, to the praise of his glorious grace, with which he has blessed us in the Beloved. In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace, which he lavished upon us, in all wisdom and insight..."

Paul begins his letter with a reminder of God's grace, emphasizing that it is by grace that believers have been saved and redeemed through Jesus Christ. He marvels at the richness of God's grace and how it has been lavished upon us. Paul emphasizes that this grace is not earned or deserved, but freely given by God as a gift to those who believe in Him. It is a reminder that salvation is not based on human merit or achievement, but solely on God's grace.

Consider
When's the last time you marveled at God's grace? In fact, when's the last time you marveled at anything? If you're like me, it's probably been a while, and you may even have to remind yourself what it means to marvel!

Merriam-Webster defines the verb marvel as "to become filled with surprise, wonder, or amazed curiosity." It's that sense of becoming overwhelmed by something so good.

So, back to the question: When's the last time you marveled at God's grace? Not just amazed at God in His goodness, or in the greatness of His creation, but at His grace?

Grace is unmerited favor. We didn't deserve it, we couldn't earn it. But He gave it because He loves us. God chose us "before the foundation of the world." Friend, He chose you. He redeemed you. He forgives you. That's marvelous!

Take some time today to read Ephesians 1:1-8 again and allow yourself to marvel of God's amazing grace.

Pray
Father God,
I stand amazed and in awe of Your marvelous grace. All I have to offer is a "Hallelujah!" Thank You for such a wonderful gift. Help me to remember Your grace day by day, moment by moment. And please help me share that grace with others. Amen.