Click this link to hear an audio version of the below text narrated by SOTH member Jerry Rhinehart:
Ephesians 3:14-21 (NIV)
A Prayer for the Ephesians
14 For this reason, I kneel before the Father, 15 from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name. 16 I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, 17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, 18 may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, 19 and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. 20 Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, 21 to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever! Amen.
If a person knew only rejection and pain in their relationships, how can they come to understand the love of God in a personal way?
Heavenly Father, I thank and praise You for Your Spirit that dwells in the hearts of Your people, especially during this time of crisis. To be a member of Your church family is that we together can be strengthened through Your Spirit. You have given us unique opportunities to stay connected by worshiping, doing bible studies and connecting together online, during this time. Use our church family to listen to one another, lift each other up in prayer, be kind and generous. Lord, I also pray for the people in our society who are suffering during this time of crisis, fear, and doubt but have not found comfort from faith in You. Use our online presence, acts of kindness, generosity, prayer, hope, and courage to reach out to the community around us and provide a witness for those who don’t know you but need You. Help these people experience the power of Your love, peace, and hope through our faith and actions. Let them feel the depth of Your great love and forgiveness. Draw them near to you and call them to be a part of Your family. I pray that Your power will be at work in us so that we can bring glory to You now, in the future and forever and ever. Amen