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, Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.
Ephesians 3:20-21
It is easy for a church to measure success by what can be seen—attendance, buildings, programs, finances, or other visible results. But Ephesians 3 points us to a higher purpose. The God who is able to do “exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think” works through His people so that He might receive glory through His church. Whatever is accomplished through a church is not ultimately a testimony to human ability, careful planning, or gifted leadership. It is a testimony to the power and grace of God.
This means that our goal must never simply be to accomplish great things, but to glorify the great God who accomplishes His work through us. The praise of Heaven is focused on Jesus alone, for He alone is worthy. “And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation” (Revelation 5:9).
Thomas Brooks wrote, “A man’s most glorious actions will at last be found to be but glorious sins, if he hath made himself, and not the glory of God, the end of those actions.” Whether God does something large or seemingly small through us, the purpose remains the same: that He would receive the glory.
