Eternal Purpose – Ephesians 3:11 (NIV)

Eternal Purpose – Ephesians 3:11 (NIV)

11 according to his eternal purpose that he accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord.

I love that our God is so intentional. He intended these purposes from eternity past. He didn’t come up with the idea of sin at some point and later think "How about a flood!" and then some rules written down and finally give up and send His son and we killed Him.

He knew and based His plans on these things. He’s patient and kind. He kindly, through history, shows us what He already knew. Starting over doesn’t work – we’re still fallen. Writing the rules down clearly doesn’t work, the problem isn’t clarity.

There’s no version of the story that ends with us being perfect on our own. But we need perfection. We need the price paid we can’t pay. We need our penalty paid by one who doesn’t deserve it.

In a painful, foolish and evil act, the ultimate gift was given. The greatest gift for us. And it was always the plan and eternally the purpose.

It makes me realize how powerful He is. How in control He is. I worry about such little things. Why? Obviously He’s in control. Being God, it’s no more effort for Him to consider one thing over another or to do something big or small.

I think I worry because I’m scared that what’s best isn’t what I want. I want to eat ice cream but get the nutrients of vegetables. I’m short-sighted and small. I prefer momentary pleasure over true gain. He knows and He’s kind and patient. But he’s also good and loving and will do what’s best… despite my pleading.