Fulfilled
Ephesians 3:16-19
Have you ever felt that you are lacking something deep down within your heart or soul? Maybe you are in search of an unconditional love? Hope for the future? The passion to move forward in life after navigating through a major setback? Purpose or identity? Maybe peace and comfort related to a traumatic experience or loss? Regardless of our current or past circumstances, or what we feel we are “lacking” from a physical, emotional, or spiritual perspective; God can provide that 100% fulfillment we are in search of. He knows exactly what we need and is able to meet our exact needs perfectly. That concept especially is what God taught me in reading and studying this passage which is Paul’s prayer for the Ephesians:
“I pray that out of His glorious riches He may strengthen you with power through His Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge – that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.”
~ Ephesians 3:16-19, NIV
Life Lessons
There are undoubtedly periods when even the strongest of believers can be tempted to spend time away from God. I have been tempted numerous times in this area and have certainly made that mistake more than once. When life is going well, it can be easy to “take a break” from engaging in our relationship with God. Despite this downfall, He still loves us perfectly and unconditionally. It was during a very desperate time that I searched for “things” or activities to bring me purpose, joy, hope, and fulfillment. In the end, nothing I searched for granted me this feeling or satisfaction. It was when I committed to setting aside a dedicated time with God each day, and in a designated area of my home that I now affectionately call my “sacred space,” that I experienced His fulfilling love and presence like never before. I don’t think I can truly describe in words how that experience felt, but I am certain it was the feeling of the overwhelming presence and peace of God. God wants us to pursue Him.
“Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and He will come near to you.”
~ James 4:7-8a, NIV
This isn’t just applicable to the difficult times of life when we desire healing, peace, or love – we need to seek God for continued strength and renewed hope in the best times as well.
Take it to Heart
It can be difficult to resist Satan’s temptation to find fulfillment and purpose elsewhere. The devil may try to tell you that God or His plan isn’t good enough for you…maybe even that He doesn’t love you. Remember that your perfect fulfillment can only come from God. You can start simply by praying for that today – He knows exactly what you need and where you need to be filled. All you have to do is approach the throne of your Father with confidence and in humility crawl into His lap. Ask Him to embrace you and fill your heart. He won’t be angry with you. He wants you to seek out His love. He desires a relationship with you.
