Our Daily Bread 11th October 2023 (Wednesday Message)

Today’s Topic: Open the Eyes of My Heart

Bible in a Year: Isaiah 37–38; Colossians 3

Bible Verse: May [God] give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. – Ephesians 1:17

Today’s Scripture: Ephesians 1:15–23

INSIGHT – 11TH OCTOBER 2023 OUR DAILY BREAD:

In his explanation of his prayers for the Ephesian church, Paul concludes by saying that he desires all believers in Jesus to know God’s “incomparably great power” (Ephesians 1:19). To explain what he means, he points to God’s strength that both raised Christ from the dead and established His rule in the heavenly realms (vv. 20–21).

For the early church—small and weak in the face of the mighty Roman Empire—the sheer expanse of God’s power would come as a welcome comfort. No rule or authority or even death itself transcended it, and that very power was promised to His people through the Spirit (Acts 1:8). And, as if that weren’t enough, Paul points out that Jesus’ transcendence and rule isn’t bound to the current age but will continue when all other powers fade away (Ephesians 1:21). It’s that very power that the apostle prayed we’d all come to know. By: Jed Ostoich

ODB 11 OCTOBER 2023 (TUESDAY MESSAGE)

In 2001, a premature baby named Christopher Duffley surprised doctors by surviving. At five months old, he entered the foster care system until his aunt’s family adopted him. A teacher realized four-year-old Christopher, though blind and diagnosed with autism, had perfect pitch. Six years later at church, Christopher stood onstage and sang, “Open the Eyes of My Heart.” The video reached millions online. In 2020, Christopher shared his goals of serving as a disability advocate. He continues to prove that possibilities are limitless with the eyes of his heart open to God’s plan.

The apostle Paul commended the church in Ephesus for their bold faith (Ephesians 1:15–16). He asked God to give them “the Spirit of wisdom and revelation” so they would “know him better” (v. 17). He prayed that their eyes would be “enlightened,” or opened, so they would understand the hope and inheritance God promised His people (v. 18).

As we ask God to reveal Himself to us, we can know Him more and can declare His name, power, and authority with confidence (vv. 19–23). With faith in Jesus and love for all God’s people, we can live in ways that prove His limitless possibilities while asking Him to keep opening the eyes of our hearts. By: Xochitl Dixon

Today’s Reflection & Prayer

How has God helped you overcome obstacles or limitations? How does knowing His truth, character, and love change the way you see challenges?

Mighty and merciful God, please open the eyes of my heart so that I can know, love, and live for You with bold faith that leads others to worship You.