Beyond What We Ask or Imagine: A Deep Study of Ephesians 3:20

 Beyond What We Ask or Imagine: A Deep Study of Ephesians 3:20


Text: “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, KJV).

Introduction

The Apostle Paul’s letter to the Ephesians is one of the richest books in the New Testament, overflowing with profound theological truths, encouragements, and prayers for believers. Among its most powerful verses is Ephesians 3:20, a declaration of God’s unlimited ability and the believer’s access to His divine power.

This verse comes at the close of Paul’s prayer for the Ephesian church (Ephesians 3:14–21), in which he intercedes that they might be strengthened with power, rooted in love, and filled with the fullness of God. As Paul finishes his prayer, he bursts forth into a doxology—an expression of praise—that centers on God’s greatness.

Ephesians 3:20 isn’t simply a statement; it is a declaration of hope, faith, and confidence in the One who goes beyond human imagination. In this article, we will explore the meaning of this verse, its context, and its practical applications for our lives today.

The Context of Ephesians 3:20

Paul’s Prayer for the Ephesians

Before arriving at verse 20, Paul prays a powerful prayer beginning in verse 14. He bows before the Father and asks that the believers would:

  • Be strengthened with power through the Spirit in their inner being (v. 16).

  • Have Christ dwelling in their hearts through faith (v. 17).

  • Be rooted and grounded in love (v. 17).

  • Comprehend the dimensions of Christ’s love—its breadth, length, height, and depth (v. 18).

  • Be filled with all the fullness of God (v. 19).

It is after this profound prayer that Paul gives glory to God with the doxology in verses 20–21. In other words, Ephesians 3:20 is Paul’s assurance that everything he prayed for is not only possible but will be exceeded by God’s power.

Doxology in Paul’s Writings

Paul frequently ends his prayers or theological sections with bursts of praise. These doxologies are not just literary closings—they are faith-filled acknowledgments that God is far greater than our prayers, our understanding, and our limits. Ephesians 3:20 is one of the most famous of these doxologies.

Breaking Down Ephesians 3:20

Let us carefully examine the key phrases of this verse.

1. “Now unto Him that is able”

The starting point is God’s ability. Paul does not point to our strength, intellect, or resources. Instead, he reminds us that the foundation of faith rests upon God’s capability. Too often, believers pray as though God is limited, but Scripture continually emphasizes that nothing is too hard for Him (Jeremiah 32:17; Luke 1:37).

God is able:

  • To save completely (Hebrews 7:25).

  • To keep us from falling (Jude 24).

  • To supply all our needs (Philippians 4:19).

  • To heal and deliver (Psalm 103:3–4).

2. “To do exceeding abundantly above”

This phrase is one of Paul’s most emphatic expressions. He piles superlatives upon superlatives to stretch the human imagination. The Greek word hyperperissou conveys an overflowing, immeasurable abundance. It is as if Paul is saying, “God is able to do far more, exceedingly, infinitely, immeasurably, abundantly beyond what we could possibly ask.”

It reflects the nature of God who doesn’t just meet needs—He often surpasses them. When Jesus fed the 5,000, there were twelve baskets left over (John 6:13). When the prodigal son returned, the father didn’t just forgive him but celebrated him with a robe, a ring, and a feast (Luke 15:22–24). God’s blessings are characterized by abundance.

3. “All that we ask or think”

This includes two realms: our requests (prayer) and our imagination (thoughts).

  • Ask: God can exceed every prayer we have ever prayed. Even when our petitions seem bold, God’s ability stretches further.

  • Think: Even our most creative thoughts, dreams, and imaginations fall short of what God is capable of doing.

This does not mean God gives us everything we desire, but it does mean that His plans surpass our expectations. Sometimes His answer comes in ways we never considered.

4. “According to the power that worketh in us”

This phrase grounds God’s exceeding ability in a personal reality: the Holy Spirit’s power in believers. Paul does not say that God’s power works far away in heaven; rather, it is already active within us.

The same power that raised Christ from the dead is at work in us (Ephesians 1:19–20). This means that God’s ability to do “exceedingly abundantly above” is not just abstract—it is present, dynamic, and transformative in the believer’s life.

Theological Implications of Ephesians 3:20

1. God’s Omnipotence

This verse points to God’s unlimited power. He is not bound by human limitations, natural laws, or impossibilities. His omnipotence assures us that He can bring about His will regardless of circumstances.

2. The Generosity of God

God’s nature is one of extravagant love and generosity. He doesn’t answer prayers sparingly but lavishes His children with grace upon grace (John 1:16). Ephesians 3:20 reveals a God who delights in exceeding expectations.

3. The Role of the Holy Spirit

The “power that worketh in us” emphasizes the active ministry of the Holy Spirit. Believers are not left powerless; they are vessels of divine energy and transformation.

4. The Interplay of Prayer and Faith

Since Paul ties this verse to his prayer, it suggests that prayer is a key way believers access God’s power. However, the answers always surpass human requests because God works according to His will, wisdom, and glory.

Practical Applications

1. Pray Boldly

Since God is able to do more than we ask, we should not be timid in our prayers. Pray for revival in your family, healing in your body, transformation in your city, or breakthroughs in impossible situations.

2. Trust God’s Timing and Ways

Even when God doesn’t answer in the way we expect, He is still working beyond what we can think. His answers often involve greater purposes than we can perceive.

3. Live with Expectation

Christians are called to live expectantly, anticipating that God can move powerfully in their lives. Instead of limiting Him by unbelief, we should embrace His promise to exceed our imagination.

4. Yield to the Holy Spirit

The power that works in us is the Spirit of God. Yielding daily to His leading allows us to walk in the fullness of God’s promises.

5. Use Your Imagination for God’s Glory

Since God works above what we think, our imaginations should be sanctified and aligned with His purposes. Dreaming God-sized dreams positions us to see His glory revealed.

Biblical Examples of God Doing Beyond What Was Asked or Imagined

  • Abraham and Sarah: They asked for a child, but God made Abraham the father of many nations (Genesis 17:5).

  • Solomon: He asked for wisdom, but God gave him wisdom, riches, and honor beyond measure (1 Kings 3:12–13).

  • The Disciples: They asked Jesus to teach them to pray; He gave them the Lord’s Prayer and later the indwelling Spirit (Luke 11:1–13; Acts 2).

  • The Church at Pentecost: They were gathered in prayer, but God poured out His Spirit and birthed a movement that shook the world (Acts 2).

Each example reflects Ephesians 3:20—God does far more than what His people expect.

Living in the Reality of Ephesians 3:20 Today

For the believer today, this verse serves as an anchor of hope. In seasons of trial, it reminds us that God’s ability is greater than our problem. In moments of vision, it assures us that God’s plans exceed our limited perspective.

Living in this reality requires:

  • Faith: Believing God’s Word even when circumstances seem impossible.

  • Prayer: Continually seeking God’s intervention and aligning with His will.

  • Surrender: Trusting that His way is higher than ours.

  • Expectation: Looking for God’s hand in every detail of life.

Conclusion

Ephesians 3:20 is more than a verse—it is a declaration of God’s character and ability. Paul, after praying for the fullness of God in the lives of the Ephesian believers, concludes by magnifying the God who exceeds human imagination.

This verse invites us to trust a God who is able, generous, and present through His Spirit. It challenges us to pray bigger prayers, expect greater things, and believe that God’s power is at work within us.

No matter what we are facing today—whether unanswered prayers, overwhelming obstacles, or impossible dreams—Ephesians 3:20 stands as a testimony: God is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all we ask or think.

Short Devotional – Ephesians 3:20

"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 reminds us that God’s power has no limits. When we pray, we often come with small expectations, but God’s answers always go beyond our imagination. He is not only able to meet our needs but to surpass them in ways that reveal His love and glory. The same power that raised Christ from the dead is working in us, equipping us to walk in victory, peace, and faith. This truth encourages us to pray boldly, trust deeply, and live expectantly—knowing that God’s plans are far greater than our own.

Prayer

Heavenly Father,
Thank You that You are able to do far more than I could ever ask or imagine. Help me not to limit You with small prayers or unbelief. Fill me with faith to trust Your power at work in my life, and give me courage to expect great things from You. May my heart rest in Your promises and my life bring glory to Your name. In Jesus’ name, Amen.


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