Ephesians 3:10-13 — Encouragingly discouraged

READ THIS: Ephesians 3:10-13

10 His intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms, 11 according to his eternal purpose that he accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord. 12 In him and through faith in him we may approach God with freedom and confidence. 13 I ask you, therefore, not to be discouraged because of my sufferings for you, which are your glory.

WHAT’S THIS MEAN, ANYWAY?

Now, the church gets to showcase God's plan to everyone by telling people about Jesus! Because of Jesus and our belief in Him, we get to go to God in full confidence, knowing that He will listen. So, if this is God's plan, and God is with us every step of the way, then there is nothing that can discourage us! When we go through hard things for God and get to talk about Jesus and His goodness because of it, then that's a win! 

What is helpful about this text, though, is that we only tell people to NOT be discouraged when they already are. The people Paul is talking to are upset that Paul is in prison. In this life, there are really upsetting things that happen. So Paul isn't banning your emotions of disappointment, sadness, or discouragement, but he IS giving us something to remember when we do feel that way. On the most discouraging day, there is still something to hold onto because God is there, and He has a plan.

THINK ABOUT IT:

1. What is the most encouraging thing about the gospel for you today?

2. Why would God want the heavenly realms to see His wisdom? What's up with verse 10?
 
TRY THIS:
 
Write down/think about the thing that makes you the most discouraged today and ask God to show you where He is in it!

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