For this reason, because I have heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love toward all the saints, I do not cease to give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers (Eph. 1:15-16).

In Ephesians, the Apostle Paul thanks God for people who are obviously flawed in many ways. They need his instruction for understanding God, worship, unity, forgiveness, family, and faith. They are people like you and me — broken, sinful, weak, and frayed. How can Paul give thanks for people like us?

Paul put on his gospel glasses to see himself and others through the lens of grace. In doing so, he first reminds us all that our salvation and ongoing transformation are a gift of God, not a product of our works so that no one can boast.

Then Paul reminds all such boast-less people that they have been loved eternally by God and will be the instruments of his eternal purposes. Through flawed people like us, God will bring all the world under the Lordship of Jesus.

Paul gives thanks for people like you and me, knowing what God intends for all of us to be: transformed, transforming, and treasured witnesses of the necessity and power of God’s grace.

Like any good pastor, parent, or boss, the apostle uses praise to help people see their potential not merely their problems. He empowers those who struggle by sharing a perspective of them provided by the lens of grace. They may not think much of themselves, but Paul sees all believers clothed in the glory of the grace of God and gives thanks for them. So should we.

Prayer:
Father, help me to put on gospel glasses, so that I can see myself and others as you intend. Help me to help others by this perspective of grace and the power of praise.