Royal Authority

But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ— by grace you have been saved— and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus,” Ephesians 2:4-6 ESV

At the end of Lenten season, whether you chose to fast or sacrifice, to meditate on God’s word, or to fervently seek God’s guidance on an issue, these three verses in Paul’s letter to the church at Ephesus remind us of the power we have here on earth.

First, we’re reminded that God abounds in mercy and loves us so much. Period. The end. No matter what you’ve done, no matter what mistakes you have made, no matter the guilt that consumes you, or the shoulda’s, coulda’s, woulda’s; you are loved and our Heavenly Father is merciful. (v.4)

Next, we’re provided an example of God’s mercy and love for us. Before we even cared about living a sanctified life that mirrors Christlike behaviors or before we were devout in our relationship with the Trinity, we were dead and God saw fit to put us on Christ’s level. (v.5)

Lastly, we’re informed of the benefits of being on Christ’s level: we assume His royalty not because of anything good we’ve done but because God loves us. His desire to give us good things including to be co-heirs with Christ has nothing to do with our individual merit and everything to do with his agape love for us. (v.6)

Whatever trials you may be facing today, internal battles you’re processing, or weariness and burnout you may be experiencing, know that God loves you. Walk in the authority of your royalty and depend on the power of Christ within you to get through.

Photo by Pro Church Media on Unsplash

Reflection

Following Lent, how can you exercise your right to walk in God’s authority? What’s weighing you down at the moment? How can you depend on the power within you and not what you see?

Prayer

Lord, thank you for your mercy, love, and grace. Forgive me for not exercising my royal authority. Give me the courage to own the power that You have placed within me. Keep me humble and empowered at the same time. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.