Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us,
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Ambrosiaster
AD 400
He is praying to God the Father that we might know better what is expedient for us, and what had better not be asked for, and when something should be given, and how much of it and exactly what we really need. He prays that God himself might fittingly govern those who believe in him by his own providence and power.
He says in effect: “I pray that you will do these things and understand these things. If, however, anyone is able to do more and more abundantly and go beyond these things—that is, beyond what I ask or understand—praise be to him. Yet whoever does more abundantly will receive this ability through the same power that works within us all, namely, through the power of God and Christ our Lord.” –.
That God has done abundantly above all that we ask or think, is evident from what the Apostle himself has written. For I indeed, says he, pray, but He of Himself, even without any prayer of mine, will do works greater than all we ask, not simply greater, nor abundantly greater, but exceeding abundantly. And this is evident from the power, that works in us: for neither did we ever ask these things, nor did we expect them.
