“Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us” (Ephesians 3:20)
The life we experience invariably falls short of the life we imagined. We all dream and hope and plan. But the ideal world that exists in our mind, and the actual world that unfolds are seldom in precise alignment. Frustration and disappointment are inevitable.
In stark contrast to this life of vanity and vexation of spirit is a life in God. It may appear at times that even He is coming up short. Our prayers go unanswered; our visions didn’t materialize; our ventures came to nothing. We thought God was for us and we were moving with Him. We expected so much, and reaped so little. Is it also vain to hope in God?
One of the “exceeding great and precious promises” of God is that He never does less than we wish, but always far, far above and beyond “all that we ask or think.” But let us not forget the last part: “according to the power that worketh in us.” The effectual power that ensures success is not our power, but His. When He sends His word it prospers. When our thoughts are aligned with His, we can be certain that His power will be at work to bring to pass what He has purposed. “For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.” (Philippians 2:13)
Bitter dissatisfaction is the lot of those who are bent on the fulfillment of their own pleasure. Reality shatters fantasy. But there is this sure promise to those who are dedicated to the fulfillment of God’s will: “Ye shall not be ashamed nor confounded world without end.” (Isaiah 45:17) Commit to the pleasure and plan of God for your life. He will not simply meet your hope for good, He will far exceed your expectation – “world without end.”