INNER MAN OUTER MAN

In Ephesians 3:14–20, Paul prayed for the inner man, recognizing that our true strength is not in our public response to the world but in the depth of our inner selves. We have mirrors that reveal our physical blemishes, but what reflects our spiritual condition? Often, our outward appearance doesn’t accurately represent what’s happening within.

In the beginning, in a world shrouded in chaos and darkness, God uttered the words, “Let there be light” (Genesis 1:3). It was not the sun, the moon, or the stars, but the radiant glory of God. Ephesians 1:16–21 speaks of the Father of Glory, the One who shines brightly and imparts the spirit of wisdom. He desires to illuminate our understanding and perception, allowing us to comprehend the hope of our calling.

Consider 1 Samuel 14:20-27. Are you, like Jonathan, walking past what God has for you out of fear of others’ opinions? These moments of stepping into our calling are designed to lift and strengthen us, brightening our countenance like honey to the soul. Don’t allow fear of people’s judgments to hinder your journey.

God fills the inside of the cup, not the outside. Just as a cup’s purpose is to hold water, our bodies are vessels designed to contain the divine power within us. It’s not about what you’re in but what’s in you—the power of God at work.

As 2 Corinthians 4:16 reminds us, though our outer selves may wither and fade, our inner man can be renewed daily. Matthew 23:25 emphasizes the importance of cleansing the inside of the cup. In 1 Peter 3:3–4, we learn that true beauty comes from within. If the light doesn’t shine within you, it cannot shine from you.