How “rich” are you?

Did you know that one of the surest ways to become disheartened and dejected is constantly look at and long for things that:

1. You do not have, and2. You are not likely to attain?

Conversely, one of the surest ways to become encourage and cheerful is to do what the song says and “Count You Blessings”.

Let’s spend a few minutes “counting our blessings” along with Paul as enumerated them to the Ephesians regarding:

“The Wealth of Christianity”

A. His Grace, Ephesians 1:7

The riches of this grace made possible the redemption of our souls and the forgiveness of our sins. Cf. 1Cor.6:19-20; Matt.18:23ff

B. The Glory of His Inheritance, Eph.1:18 Neither you nor your parents are /were

able to leave any more precious inheritance than that of faith in God and love for His church! A legacy composed of such as these is worth far more than any monetary amount could ever provide (cf. Matt.16:26).

The “inheritance” spoken of in Eph.1:18 is that of heaven- the eternal hope of our calling. Please note the “wealth” associated with its description in Rev.21.

C. His Mercy, Ephesians 2:4

Because of the “great love with which He loved us” the just and righteous penalty of our sins (Rom.6:23) was paid by our Savior Jesus Christ!

Through this manifestation of mercy, we were made alive even though dead in sin. cf. Titus 3:3-7.

D. of Christ, Ephesians 3:8

The “riches” are defined within this context as being the gospel, cf. vv.1-7.

Indeed, how precious is that gospel which brings salvation and reconciliation to all without respect to race, background, or social disposition. cf. Matt.13:44-46; 7:6; Col.1:24-27

E. the Glory of His Strengthening Power, Ephesians 3:16ff This passage (vv.16-21), is the prayer offered by Paul

in behalf of the Ephesians. In it, he prayed that they be strengthened by: Power through His Spirit in the inner man,

Rom.8:1-11; 12:1-2 Christ dwelling in their hearts by faith, Rom.8:9-

10 To root and ground them in love to

comprehension, John 3:3 To know breadth…length…height…depth of

Christ’s love- which surpasses knowledge. To the end that they might be filled to all the

fullness of God, Gen.1:26-27.

Indeed, “Count Your Many Blessings” for you are

“rich” in Christ! If you’re not “in Christ” on

the other hand,Galatians 3:27!