Bold Prayers to a Big God

Bold Prayers to a Big God

Sermon by Pastor Tim Block / Jan 11, 2026

Series: Pray First

Text: Ephesians 3:20–21

Big Idea: Pray bold prayers to a big God.

God Has a Proven Track Record

• God is faithful, good, powerful, and wise

• Prayer is an invitation for God to work in our lives

• Our confidence in prayer flows from who God is, not who we are

Key Scripture:

• Ephesians 3:20–21

God’s Definition vs. Cultural Definition

• Culture defines greatness as:

  • Money, success, power, fame, beauty

• Jesus defines greatness as:

  • Serving instead of authority

  • Contentment instead of riches

  • Risk instead of comfort

  • Sacrifice instead of convenience

  • Giving instead of getting

  • Character instead of outward beauty

God’s Power in Prayer

• God is able to do anything

• Nothing is too hard for Him

• Bold prayers are a response to a great God

Key Scripture:

• Ephesians 3:20

“Exceeding Abundantly Above All”

• God’s ways and thoughts are higher than ours

• God’s answers may differ from our desires, plans, or expectations

• Trust is required when God’s “better” feels difficult

Key Scriptures:

• Ephesians 3:20

• Isaiah 55:8–9

Bold Prayer #1:

“God, I Trust You”

• Trust God even when His plan involves waiting, difficulty, or suffering

• Trust grows when God’s work does not align with personal desires

God’s Transforming Work

God’s power enables believers to:

• Live with humility and unity (Ephesians 4:1–6)

• Use spiritual gifts for the body of Christ (Ephesians 4:7–16)

• Walk in new life in Christ (Ephesians 4:17–24)

• Speak in God-honoring ways (Ephesians 4:25–29)

• Live with kindness, forgiveness, and love (Ephesians 4:30–32)

Bold Prayer #2:

“God, Change Me”

• God’s power brings real transformation

• Change is possible through Christ

• God works in sanctification, restoration, and spiritual growth

Bold Prayer #3:

“God, Use My Life for Your Glory”

• The ultimate goal of prayer is God’s glory

• God is glorified through the church and through Jesus Christ

• Our lives are meant to point others to Christ

Key Scripture:

• Ephesians 3:21