“I pray that from his glorious, unlimited resources he will empower you with inner strength through his Spirit.  Then Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him.  Your roots will grow down into God’s love and keep you strong.” (Ephesians3:16-17 NIV)

           This scripture contains the apostle Paul’s prayer for believers to receive inner spiritual strength through the Holy Spirit.  Paul askes God to empower them so that Christ may dwell in their hearts, allowing their lives to be deeply rooted and grounded in love.

           When we believe in Jesus the Holy Spirit comes and dwells within us.  The Spirit will empower us with inner strength which gives us the strength we need when we are weak.  Hope when we are down.  Fortitude when it is hard to keep putting one foot in front of the other. Courage when fear becomes a driving force.  Stability when we waver in life, because we cannot seem to make a decision.

           The indwelling of Christ happens through faith, it emphasizes an intimate, ongoing relationship rather than a fleeting experience.  Thus, with Christ’s help we can overcome any situation that comes our way.  Because we are rooted in Christ’s love, which provides a stable foundation.  For a stable foundation is a secure base that prevents outside forces, inner chaos, or life from shifting or collapsing under stress.  Christ provides the necessary support we need to get through life and life’s difficulties. With Christ we can face all of life, for we have the assurance that we will not navigate life’s complexities alone.  God Bless. Amen.

denise