Matthew 16:24
September 28, 2024
TODAY’S GOSPEL READING – 28 SEPTEMBER
September 28, 2024
THE 28th OF SEPTEMBER
JESUS CAN LIVE IN OUR HEARTS THROUGH FAITH WHEN WE STRENGTHEN OURSELVES WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT
That He (Father God) would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith… – Ephesians 3:16-17 a
What a powerful prayer Paul offered for the church in Ephesus! This serves as an excellent example for all of us, as we each need what Paul requested. To walk with Jesus and live righteously, we must rely on the strength that comes from the Holy Spirit above all else. We need spiritual energy, which is made possible when the Holy Spirit resides within us. For the Holy Spirit’s strength to flourish and grow in us, we must desire, pray, and believe in it.
Once we sincerely chose to follow Jesus, we were born again, and the Holy Spirit began to dwell within us. It is only through His assistance that we can have unwavering faith in God and obey Him. By faith, Jesus truly lives within us. He, the Holy Spirit, and Father God are unified in their essence and nature, forming the Holy Trinity. With Jesus living in us, we are never alone; He is always present to strengthen, guide, counsel, and lead us to victory through life’s challenges.
SUGGESTED PRAYER
Dear Lord God, please help me, according to the riches of Your glory, to be strengthened in my inner being so that I may remain in Jesus and He in me, following Him no matter what I face. I cannot do this in my own strength. Please fill me with Your Holy Spirit and grant me the power I need so that my faith continues to grow and keeps Jesus in my heart for as long as I live on this earth. Thank You, dear Jesus, for the honor of having You dwell in my heart. Amen
