“that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man, that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith” (Ephesians 3:16-17).
According to the inspired pen of the apostle Paul, a fundamental need of all Christians is spiritual strength (v. 16). This need interlocks with another genuine necessity—a Savior, an abiding person; someone and something far more than a personal therapist (Ephesians 3:17).
The word “dwell” denotes Christ as having settled into and remaining in your heart. He is not an infrequent visitor; He has taken up permanent residence.
Because Jesus is the answer to your need for continuous spiritual strength, you abide in Him as a branch does in a vine. Because He and His word abide in your heart by faith, you are spiritually healthy, vibrant, and fruitful (John 15:1-8).
The name given Jesus at His birth clearly declares that humanity’s most basic and urgent need is for a Savior (Matthew 1:21). The strength needed for overwhelming spiritual victory (Romans 8:37) can only come when Christ has taken up permanent residence in your heart through faith.
Is Christ your self-help advisor/therapist, or your Savior and Lord?
Is He an occasional visitor, or a lifelong, joyously welcomed resident in your heart?
You genuinely need Him to be your Savior and Lord and lifelong resident.
