We all need a certain capability to behave in ways that promote good health. The question is, do we do it in our own strength or do we tap into the strength from the almighty God? 
In today’s verses, the author Paul provides a prayer for us to understand and receive special empowerment and strength from God. I suspect so many of us do not appropriate anyway near the power that God wants us to have to live life as He wants us to. At least I know I fall way short in this area… but I am learning.
A Believer in Christ has the Holy Spirit living inside of him. Verse 16 indicates that the Holy Spirit gives us inner strength. Do you believe this? Do you really appreciate how much the Holy Spirit empowers you? That’s key… that you believe this and claim this truth. It’s important that you tuck this truth deep in your spirit. I believe that it is our belief and faith that ignites this special power.
In verse 17 Paul prays that our roots will go deep into the soil of God’s marvelous love. In college, a cross country coach once told me that “An oak tree can’t grow in a greenhouse.” The winters in New York can be harsh. It would be easier for us to train inside on the indoor track, but the coach wanted us to run outside… to gain a certain mental toughness while running in the elements. This toughness would enable us to perform better in the races. As in running a cross country race to win, we can run the race of life more effectively if we are filled with more power from God. This power comes from knowing Him and in spending time with Him in prayer and in believing just what Paul tells us in Ephesians. God wants to permeate us with His love and this can happen if we open our hearts and spirit to Him and His love. (This is about the Spiritual Exercise of Believing in and Receiving God’s Love). The Bible tells us that when we do this, God can accomplish infinitely more in our lives than we can ever imagine!
So many of us want to make behavior changes in our life so we can be more healthy. We can only bring about so much change in our own strength. “Infinitely more” change can come about if we tap into the wondrous power that comes from God’s love and His Holy Spirit. And when you’re able to make these greater changes in your life, don’t forget to give God the glory!
He is a great God!
Until next week…. be blessed!
Dale
