Approaching God with Freedom and Confidence

Ephesians 3:12 reminds us of the incredible privilege we have as believers in Christ - the ability to approach God with freedom and confidence. This profound truth has been applicable throughout biblical times and continues to resonate with believers today. Let's explore how this verse applied in the past and how it remains relevant in our lives today.

 

Biblical Times:

In biblical times, the concept of approaching God with freedom and confidence was quite revolutionary. In the Old Testament, people often approached God through elaborate rituals and sacrifices performed by priests. Ordinary individuals had limited direct access to God's presence, as it was veiled within the Holy of Holies in the temple. The fear of God's holiness and the awareness of human sinfulness created a barrier between God and people.

 

However, through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, this barrier was torn down. By His sacrifice on the cross, Jesus became the ultimate High Priest, bridging the gap between humanity and God. Believers were no longer restricted by rituals or human intermediaries. They could now approach God directly, confident in their new identity as children of God through faith in Christ.

 

Today:

The message of Ephesians 3:12 remains as powerful today as it was in biblical times. As Christians, we enjoy the privilege of direct access to God through Jesus Christ. We are no longer constrained by the burden of sin, as Jesus paid the price for our redemption. This freedom allows us to come before God in prayer, seeking His guidance, comfort, and strength without fear or hesitation.

 

Through faith in Christ, we are assured of God's love and acceptance, even in our weaknesses and failures. This confidence in God's grace empowers us to approach Him boldly, trusting in His faithfulness to answer our prayers according to His perfect will.

The Challenges:

Despite the freedom and confidence we have in Christ, we often encounter challenges in our spiritual journey. The pressures of modern life, distractions, and temptations can hinder our intimacy with God. Doubts and insecurities may creep in, making us question our worthiness before Him. However, it's essential to remember that God's invitation to approach Him remains unchanged, regardless of our circumstances.

The Application:

To apply Ephesians 3:12 in our lives today, we must nurture our relationship with God through prayer, reading His Word, and engaging in fellowship with other believers. Regularly spending time in God's presence will deepen our understanding of His love and strengthen our confidence in Him.

 

We should also remember that approaching God with freedom and confidence is not a license for arrogance or self-centeredness. Instead, it should humble us, recognizing that it's only by His grace that we can come to Him. This humility allows us to seek forgiveness when we stumble and to extend the same grace to others.

 

Conclusion:

Ephesians 3:12 serves as a timeless reminder of the incredible privilege we have through faith in Christ. In biblical times and today, this verse speaks of the remarkable truth that we can approach God with freedom and confidence, unburdened by sin and assured of His love. As we embrace this truth in our daily lives, let us seek to grow in our relationship with Him, living boldly and faithfully, knowing that our Heavenly Father welcomes us with open arms.

 

-Ronald A Fahrenholz II        www.anchoredingod.org