Ephesians 1:11–12   God predestined the church to “be to the praise of his glory.”  This is our purpose as a community, to make much of God.

Ephesians 1:13–14   The spirit is God’s seal that we are His and His pledge of our future inheritance.

Genesis 38:11, 13-23   Tamar provides a helpful if colorful example of how a pledge works.  Just like Judah didn’t force Tamar to receive the pledge, God does not force us to stay faithful.  But if we do, He has guaranteed

Ephesians 1:15-19   Paul prayed four things for the church:

Ephesians 1:20-23   God demonstrated His power by raising Christ from the dead, seating him at His right hand in heaven, and bestowing on him a position above all other authorities (Daniel 7:13-14).

How do your prayers sound?  Although our tendency is to focus on ourselves and others who are in need, it would be better for us to become more God-focused—know Him, the hope He called us to, His inheritance, and His power.