Ephesians 3:16
That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man;
Ephesians 3:16
This verse prays that God would grant believers strength: “according to the riches of his glory” and “to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man.” The “inner man” points to the heart, will, and deepest self—where transformation occurs. Paul emphasizes that true power comes not from human effort but from the Spirit dwelling within believers. The phrase “riches of his glory” underscores God’s abundant, inexhaustible resources available to his people. In late Second Temple Judaism and Greco-Roman thought, inner strength was tied to a person’s character and endurance; Paul redirects that idea to the Spirit’s empowerment for living out the gospel. The request for inner strengthening also aligns with the surrounding theme of being rooted and grounded in Christ’s love.
Key themes: the Spirit’s indwelling power, spiritual resilience, and divine supply for sanctification. This verse anchors Christian strength in God’s resources rather than human prowess, highlighting the transformative power of the Spirit at work in the inner life. It also connects strength with identity—being rooted and grounded in Christ’s love provides a stable foundation for growth and obedience. Theologically, it reinforces the Trinity’s role in salvation: the Father’s plan, the Son’s work, and the Spirit’s ongoing ministry in believers.
Practical steps: cultivate spiritual disciplines that invite the Spirit’s inner strengthening—regular prayer, Scripture meditation, confession, and worship. If you feel spiritually worn, re-center on God’s abundant resources rather than your own capability. In parenting, equip children by modeling dependence on the Spirit for patience, self-control, and kindness. At work or school, display inner steadiness through gracious responses under pressure, demonstrating the Spirit’s fruit in you. Try a weekly rhythm: a moment of quiet before the day begins to invite God’s strength into decisions, relationships, and temptations. Visualization technique: imagine God’s riches as a vast reservoir feeding your inner life when you need courage, perseverance, or wisdom.
Cross-References: Romans 8:9-11; Galatians 5:22-23; Colossians 1:29; 2:19