Bold and Blessed
We’ve reached the final stop in our journey through Paul’s letter to the Ephesians, and what a journey it’s been. This isn’t just an ancient letter—it’s a message that speaks across centuries, calling us into God’s family through the love of Jesus and the power of the Holy Spirit. In these six chapters, Paul reminds us that we are chosen, loved, forgiven, and called to live differently in the world. He urges us to walk in unity, to put on God’s armor when life gets hard, and to remember that we are part of God’s great plan to bring everything together in Christ.
What strikes me most is that this wasn’t written from a pulpit or retreat center, but from a prison cell. Paul had no guarantee he’d ever see his Ephesian friends again, so he poured his heart into this letter. Imagine what it must have been like when word spread that a letter from Paul had arrived. Friends and families would have gathered eagerly, leaning in as the words were read aloud by firelight. These weren’t just ink on parchment—these were the words of their pastor and friend, written with love and urgency.
And in the same way, we still find ourselves leaning in today. Because this letter is more than historical—it’s personal. Paul’s words remind us of who we are in Christ and encourage us to keep going when life feels heavy. That’s something we all need. Encouragement is like oxygen for the soul, and sometimes the smallest reminder that we are seen and loved can make the biggest difference.
Not long ago, a family handed me a letter that completely stopped me in my tracks. I assumed it was routine paperwork, but when I opened it, I found words of affirmation for our church, our staff, and even me personally. Tears flowed as I read how they saw God’s love lived out here. It wasn’t complicated or deeply theological—it simply said, “We love you. We see the work you’re doing. We thank God for you.” And in that moment, I realized again how powerful words of encouragement can be. That letter? It’s a keeper.
Paul knew the believers in Ephesus needed that kind of encouragement too. Their city was a spiritual crossroads, full of idols, superstition, and cultural pressures that pulled them away from Christ. Following Jesus wasn’t easy. They needed reminders that they were loved, seen, and making a difference. And so, Paul didn’t just send a letter—he sent a trusted friend named Tychicus, a “beloved brother and faithful helper,” to deliver the letter and his heart. Paul wanted them to hear, not just read, his encouragement.
That’s the beauty of encouragement: it’s not just saying something nice—it’s coming alongside someone and reminding them of who they are in Christ. The Greek word Paul often used, parakaleo, literally means “to call near.” Encouragement lifts our eyes back to God and strengthens our faith when we feel unseen or weary. And in a world where negativity, division, and discouragement often seem louder, this kind of encouragement is desperately needed.
So how do we live this out? First, we can make encouragement a daily discipline—choosing to send that text, write that note, or make that call. Second, we can be specific by sharing Scripture or Spirit-led words that speak directly to someone’s situation. And third, we can work to build a culture of encouragement in our communities, so people know they are seen and valued. Even the smallest words—“I see how you serve,” “You’ve blessed me with your kindness,” “Your faith inspires me”—can become lifelines for someone else.
Paul ends Ephesians with a blessing: “Peace be with you, dear brothers and sisters, and may God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you love with faithfulness. May God’s grace be eternally upon all who love our Lord Jesus Christ” (Eph. 6:23–24). What a way to close—a reminder of peace, love, faithfulness, and grace. These were the words the Ephesians needed then, and they are the words we need today. May we not only receive them, but also become people who pass them on.