Guard Your Heart

heartTherefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, do not cease to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers: that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him, the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe, according to the working of His mighty power. (Eph 1:15-19)

Paul is truly blessed by the report he hears of the church at Ephesus, their faith and their love for the saints.  Fifteen years later however, John would write, “To the angel of the church of Ephesus write, `These things says He who holds the seven stars in His right hand, who walks in the midst of the seven golden lampstands: “I know your works, your labor, your patience, and that you cannot bear those who are evil. And you have tested those who say they are apostles and are not, and have found them liars; “and you have persevered and have patience, and have labored for My name’s sake and have not become weary. “Nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left your first love. “Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent and do the first works, or else I will come to you quickly and remove your lampstand from its place– unless you repent. (Rev 2:1-5 NKJ)

Perhaps that is why Paul was praying that the ‘spirit of wisdom,’ ‘revelation in the knowledge of Him,’ and ‘the eyes of their understanding be enlightened.’ Such gifts from God would show those Christians that it is not about programs and projects, but about Christ, and our love for him.  It is that love relationship that will keep us in right relationship. For the Ephesians, it was not to be.

About Terry Threadwell

Dr. Terry Threadwell has thirty five years ministry experience. Author, educator and Director of the Institute of Progressive Pentecostal Studies.
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