Ephesians 1:18

‘The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints.’ – Ephesians 1:18

Ephesus was one of the largest and most important cities in Asia Minor, known for wealth, trade, and religious center in the Roman territories of Asia. But watch Paul’s prayer for them. His prayer wasn’t for more wealth; his prayer emphasized “the must need” for every believer to receive the Spirit of wisdom, who is the Holy Spirit, so that we can all understand God’s revelation and to fully known Him.

Then he continued, praying that their eyes of understanding would be enlightened. We all need the Holy Spirit, because our fleshly eyes without Him will deceive us and lead us into temptations that harm us spiritually just like Eve, Samson, and David.

But the Holy Spirit guides how we see and perceive situations. When I received the diagnosis that my children had autism, I first saw only hardship. But the Holy Spirit shifted my perspective. He turned my pain into purpose and opened a door of ministry I never imagined.

Just as Paul prayed, the Holy Spirit aligns our sight to see through God’s eyes—for us to understand the hope of His calling and the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints.

But why don’t all see what Jesus did for us on the cross, and what He offers through His death and resurrection? His death conquered death so we no longer feel its sting?

He offers salvation to everyone who believes. He offers His life so we may have life abundantly. He offers us a new beginning. He offers peace this world cannot give, and a love without conditions.

And He is preparing a place for us that is pain free, death free, sin free. A New Jerusalem, where the streets are pure gold like clear glass, and the walls are adorned with precious stones. And greatest of all, He Himself will dwell with us forever.

But none of this can be understood without the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit.

So I ask you today, have you asked Jesus to baptize you with His Spirit?