Ephesians 1:3-14 | It starts with Worship

Before Paul could communicate any of his needs or requests to the churches in Ephesus, he starts his letter in a remarkable way. It is believed the letter to the Ephesians was written during Paul’s Roman imprisonment and his own personal history of difficulties and hardships maybe had allowed for a confession of pity and help; however, Paul begins with a confession of worship. “Praise be to the God and father of our Lord Jesus Christ who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ,” Ephesians 1:3 Furthermore, Paul continues his introduction by reminding his audience of who they are in Christ: blessed, chosen, children, forgiven, and graced (verses 3-14). A confession of worship shapes the life and actions of a Christian. The Christian adventure begins with the telling and retelling of who God is, his grandeur, and the blessings we have in Christ. A confession of worship also reminds believers of who they are: sons and daughters chosen to shine God’s glory to the world. When we take a moment and praise God first, we change our focus from our earthly needs to our heavenly inheritance. Our suffering is seen from a different perspective. When we once lacked, we now have more than enough. Praising God reorients our perspective and while our circumstances are difficult at times, our confession reminds us of who we are and what we have in Christ. When you think of God, what do you praise him for? Read Ephesians 3-14: what words or thoughts stand out to you? Can you share a moment or story that reminds you of God’s love or goodness? Ask a friend, what aspect of God stands out them?