Ephesians 3:20-21 - When I can't think

Some of my favorite prayers, at least the ones to pray for others, come from Paul's letters. For the Ephesians, he prayed that they would "know the love of Christ that goes beyond knowing." (Ephesians 4:19, KJC paraphrase). Then he concludes his prayer with this benediction:

"20 Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, 21 to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen." Ephesians 3:20–21 (New American Standard, 1995)

I've often superimposed on that first verse, "God is able to do more than I can ask or even dream up. He exceeds any creative options I can imagine."

But the word "think" means just that: rational thought or comprehension. 

Unfortunately, sometimes I simply cannot think. The other night I was trying to type something late at night. My brain was exhausted. I couldn't think clearly enough to construct an understandable sentence. Perhaps fear or angst so paralyzes our thoughts that we cannot form words in our head, let alone to speak them. Or maybe distraction by incessant, overwhelming responsibilities.

More than one friend has joked with me, "I can't remember things. I'm just getting old." It's not a joke if there is genuine dementia! Still, God is able to do way more than whatever age or dementia seem to rob from us. Even when we're asleep in bed at night, not thinking at all--God is still at work on our behalf.

Lord, I'm glad that You are thinking when I am not thinking. Whatever thoughts filter through my brain, You're able to do well beyond anything my mind might try to formulate or grasp. And so you get all the credit and praise---now and in eternity. In Jesus' name, Amen.