Robert E Rasmussen.com

Prior to the news that Covid-19 was quickly becoming a global threat, I had begun a fresh look at the Apostle Paul’s letter to believers who gathered in the bustling, idolatrous city of Ephesus.

In recent weeks, the anxiety level of humanity has risen dramatically, and the future is uncertain. As I am observing the “shelter in place” order of our California governor, my soul is encouraged by the unchanging truths written for us in Ephesians. I wonder if we might benefit from considering some of these verses together in coming days.

Writing from a prison cell, the Apostle Paul tells of the limitless greatness of the life we can have in Christ. Confined and deprived on earth, he speaks of heavenly wealth and happiness: 

“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ” (Eph.1:3).

This is the first of six references in Ephesians in which Paul mentions the heavenly realms (can you find the other five?). When life on earth is in chaos, the heavens are established as God’s domain. Beyond reach of disease, corruption, and theft, the lavish gifts of God to the believer are safely reserved in heaven.

Within the heavenlies (or “heavenly places”), these blessings are “in Christ,” protected by the power of His name and authority. This is most important, because Christ has been raised above every authority which operates in the heavenly realms (1:20-22).

Today, let’s turn our focus on all that cannot be tainted or threatened by earthly disasters. God has placed all that truly matters into safe keeping for all eternity.

Perhaps over recent days your focus has slipped toward fear or anger. It is extremely difficult to adapt to loss of control and freedom!

But would you join me in re-framing our circumstances and putting Christ back in the center of the frame? Let’s take a hold of His steady hand and walk together today.

You are loved,

        Robert

Consider praying this simple truth throughout today: 

I have every spiritual blessing,
reserved in heaven for me,
safe in Christ Jesus.
Praise be to God!