The popular in education saying is “knowledge is power.” There is some truth to that, but knowledge is only valuable when used and transformed into wisdom. There are a lot of intelligent people who know everything they should do but do the opposite. The Apostle Paul wants you to have a spirit of wisdom as you grow in your knowledge of Jesus Christ.
EPHESIANS 1:17
“that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you a spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of Him.”
Paul’s Prayer
In almost every one of Paul’s epistles, he writes a prayer for the people. It starts most letters like this one in Ephesians, but there are a few in the middle. In these prayers, you see Paul’s love for the people and his heart to see them grow in their faith. Each one is specific to the particular church and reflects what they are going through. Here he wants Jesus to give them a spirit of wisdom and a revelation in the knowledge of Him.
A Lack of Wisdom
Each of us needs a spirit of wisdom. Wisdom is the practical application of knowledge and experience. Paul wants the Ephesians to apply what they have learned from His teachings and what the Holy Spirit has shown them in their devotional time. Poor judgment and a refusal to listen to counsel show a lack of wisdom. Paul wants you to work in the wisdom God gives you. If you don’t know what to do, then you need to seek out mature Christians who can guide you in the wisdom of the Word of God.
A Spirit of Wisdom
James says that if you ask for wisdom, God will give you a double portion. God wants you to think and act wisely. If you need wisdom, don’t be shy to ask the Lord to give it to you. Don’t let rash decisions and spiteful words be the norm in your life. Pray for a spirit of wisdom to come upon you. It will save a ton of headaches later on.