Paul’s prayer is a great example for us. Notice how he bookend his prayer with humility and praise. Ephesians 3:14 says, “…I bow my knees to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” In verses 16-19 he petitioned the Lord. Verses 20-21 He praised the Lord for His character. They say, “Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.”

Ephesians chapters one through three addressed our standing in Christ. Our standing will never change. Then in chapters four through six Paul addressed our state. His words instruct us in how to navigate through our myriad circumstances in life which are always changing. Our state is our walk with the Lord. It is a journey of progressive sanctification.

Chapter four is a powerful word to us about unity and how we should live. We are created to glorify the Lord in everything that we think, say, and do. Jeremiah 23:29 says, “Is not My word like a fire? says the Lord, and like a hammer that breaks the rock in pieces?”

God’s ways, His will, and His purpose are our standard. As we daily read His word, our state goes through purifying fires and blows from His hammer. His word hidden in our heart is what the Holy Spirit uses to convict us when we don’t emulate the Lord. His truth is like a sentinel that warns us when we are about to step into enemy-traps of unseen temptations.

Father, I bow my heart before You. I acknowledge my utter dependence on You. Help us to walk in the truth of Your word. Help us to emulate You through our thoughts that lead to righteous words and actions. Thank You for Your unending mercy and abundant grace. To You belong all praise, and glory, and honor. There is no one Your equal. Amen.