In verse 12 we talk about “our faith in Christ,” which is only possibility because of Christ’s faithfulness to us in spite of the pain and agony he endured for us. He chose to suffer this punishment for us—instead of us!
11 This was his eternal plan, which he carried out through Christ Jesus our Lord. 12 Because of Christ and our faith in him, we can now come boldly and confidently into God’s presence. 13 So please don’t lose heart because of my trials here. I am suffering for you, so you should feel honored. Ephesians 3:11-13, NLT
| Salvation | God’s plan for eternity (11). |
| Christ’s faithfulness | Jesus chose to pay the penalty for our sins (11). |
| Our faith | Gives us access to God’s throne room (12). |
| Paul’s faith | Paul’s sufferings were the result of living out his faith. In this, he is our representative and our example (13). |
Freedom of speech—this is something God has given us. We can communicate with God as though we were kings because of Jesus’ sacrifice for us. But remember cause and effect. Boldness is needed to exercise that freedom, as well as dependence on God’s strength, because living for and speaking freely of God’s love and grace can land us in earthly hot water, as Paul’s imprisonment shows us. Step out of the timid cluster, and be bold.
Pray with me.
Lord, let the words of my mouth and the actions of my hands reflect your love and glory. Amen.
Sing along with Leanna Crawford, “The Truth I’m Standing On.”
Kathleen S Evenhouse 