“Which is his body, the fulness of him that fills all in all.”
(Ephesians 1:23)
Scripture promises believers a most magnificent destiny—an eternity where God’s fullness permeates everything and every facet of existence radiates His glory.
On that eternal day, believers will be fully transformed into Christ’s glorious likeness. For Scripture says, “when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is” (1 John 3:2). And we will forever dwell in perfect harmony with God our Father, Christ His Son and our Savior, and all who have been redeemed. Darkness, sin, and sorrow will be replaced by the radiant presence of God filling “all in all.”
As the devotional states, “This is the beauty of ‘the church… the whole company of those that are elected, redeemed, and in time effectually called from the state of sin and death, unto a state of grace and salvation in Jesus Christ.’” And in that day, Christ will reign as King in His kingdom of peace, and all our worship and praise and thanksgiving will flow naturally from a pure love for God, completely freed from earthly struggles.
Paradise truly surpasses every earthly wonder. In his attempts to help us understand this reality, Paul describes it to the Christians in the church at Corinth in this way: “Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor has it entered into the heart of man the things which God has prepared for those who love Him” (1 Corinthians 2:9). In other words, we don’t even have the capacity to imagine it’s wonder!
The atmosphere there is comprised of God’s boundless love. Any joy we experience now is but a glimpse of the uncorrupted delights awaiting us there. Relationships will transform profoundly; we will no longer be defined by earthly roles and woes but united as God’s beloved children, praising the Father for His mercy and grace in endless celebration.
So we who are in Christ Jesus can look forward to the day when this decaying, curse-riddled body will be transformed into the likeness of His glorious body, when forever we will praise and worship and rejoice around His throne.
In our glorious anticipation of that final day, even now let us direct all glory, worship, and attention to our Great God and Father, knowing that heaven’s light emanates from His majesty alone for He is the One filling all in all.
Contemplations:
- The fullness of Christ in me. Ephesians 1:23 promises that God’s fullness will fill me one day, and I will experience Christ’s presence completely, beyond what I can ever imagine. This hope comforts me even now, in the middle of burdens and trials and makes me long for that day when sin’s weight will be replaced with divine fullness.
- Rejoicing in the glory of others. I often compare myself to others, becoming envious of their blessings. But in heaven all jealousy and envy will be eliminated, for we will all rejoice in the magnitude of God’s grace upon each person. I will celebrate others’ gifts, and we will be united as one body, reflecting the beauty of God’s love and mercy shed on us all. I want to cultivate gratitude now for the eternal harmony where we all will shine in Christ’s light.
- The simplicity of eternity. Eternity’s simplicity astounds me—no earthly concerns, complex relationships, or worries. Just the joyful experience of God’s presence and being with His people. The reality that I will one day live free from fear and sorrow gives me great hope for an eternity filled with uncomplicated bliss in His presence.
- Wisdom gained in this life. The glory that awaits us in heaven challenges me to pursue God’s mysteries now. Time spent in His Word serves to deepen my joy and worship and fosters my growth in understanding His love and grace. I want to be consistently learning more of Him now so I can more fully anticipate glorifying Him eternally in all His fullness.
Prayer (Supplication):
O God, Your glory fills all in all, as Ephesians 1:23 proclaims. I adore Your majestic fullness that radiates through all eternity and for Your presence that dispels darkness and transforms believers into the likeness of Christ.
I confess my shortsightedness. Earthly cares often consume me—worries, comparisons, chasing temporary comforts and pleasures. I envy others, complicate relationships, and neglect the wonders and ways of Your Word. Sin clings to my nature, weakness burdens my heart, and sorrow of soul lingers. I have lived for temporal shadows, ignoring Your eternal light. Forgive my divided heart and cleanse me from all that dims Your glory.
I thank You for the church—Your body of believers who have been elected, redeemed, and called to grace. Thank You for filling us with Christ’s fullness now and preparing paradise for our future beyond our most vivid imagination. For this inheritance in Christ I offer my heartfelt gratitude.
Now I plead, gracious Father. Prepare me for this glorious future. Fill me increasingly with Your fullness now, as Ephesians 1:23 describes. Transform my weaknesses into strengths that reflect Christ. Banish envy that wants to live in my heart and in its place instill joy for the good You give to others. Simplify my desires and free me from earthly entanglements. Grant me wisdom through Your Word that I may better understand Your ways.
When trials weigh me down, remind me of the freedom and joy that is to come after this life where there will be no disease, decay, or strife. Strengthen me to live anticipating eternity, so that my priorities align with those of heaven. And let my worship flow naturally from love for You unhindered by sin.
I depend on Your Spirit to conform me daily, readying me for the day when Your fullness fills all in all forever. Hasten that glorious day, Lord!
In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.
Further Scripture References for Ephesians 1:23:
John 1:16, 1 Cor. 12:27, Eph. 3:19, Col. 3:11, Col. 2:9.
