Ephesians 1:9-11 – The Plan

Read Ephesians 1:9-11

Moving on from the praise in our last reading, Paul shares a truth that will surely give us reason to rejoice. We’re given inside information about what God’s plan is for our lives and for the world. It is a glorious future we all share.

As followers of Christ, we are part of God’s plan. How God’s will plays out remains a mystery to us, but now we know what the plan is. Paul tells us, “At the right time he (God) will bring everything together under the authority of Christ—everything in heaven and on earth.” The puzzling part of this statement is what God deems to be the “right time.”

Do you trust God? I do, and because I’m confident that God knows what that perfect time is, I don’t have to worry about it. Sure, I’m curious about whether I’ll see these events unfold in my lifetime. If I don’t, I’ll be on the other side watching the events unfold from there.

We don’t need to be like all the crazy people out there who try to predict God’s timing. Matthew 24:36 says, “However, no one knows the day or hour when these things will happen, not even the angels in heaven or the Son himself. Only the Father knows.” Rather than focus on something we are clearly not meant to know, we should busy ourselves with being the best witness to Jesus’ love, making sure we are ready for this plan to play out. Helping others means introducing them to Jesus so they can get ready, too.

Our inheritance is secure. How does that promise make you feel? Jesus told us he was making a place for us. He said in John 14:3, “When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am.” What a future of hope we have to look forward to. No amount of money, fame, or power on earth can compare to the riches we’ll share with Jesus on the other side.

The final promise in this passage is this: “he (God) makes everything work out according to his plan.” If we trust God and his plan, we can also trust that in the end everything will work out according to that plan. I’m focusing on that word, “everything.” When our faith is tested, we can easily get off track.

God’s plan may look different than we expect or want it to be. At the right time, Jesus will finally be in control. We can be sure that whatever happens will be the perfect plan God had all along. Let that truth still your heart in all the hurting places today. God has our backs.

Let’s pray. Father, your plan is perfect. Help me to really grasp that reality. Thank you for choosing me for this great inheritance. May I live each day to the fullest as I prepare myself for your perfect timing. Use me to help others as they seek you. I cherish the honor of being able to watch your plan unfold in this world or the next. In Jesus’ name. Amen.