This you learned from Epaphras, our beloved fellow servant. He is a faithful minister of Christ on your behalf, and he has made known to us your love in the Spirit.  For this reason, since the day we heard it, we have not ceased praying for you and asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of God's will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so that you may lead lives worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him, as you bear fruit in every good work and as you grow in the knowledge of God. -Colossians 1:7-10

When you hear the word "wisdom," what comes to mind? Paul writes to the church at Colossae, a young church - just a kid - not old enough to be wise. Despite this, Paul knows by their love that they are filled with the Spirit, so he prays that they would also be filled with wisdom.

The wisdom that Paul is talking about comes from the Spirit. This wisdom is active and dynamic - it will shape their lives and bear fruit in the form of good works and a growing knowledge of God. Where do we find this kind of wisdom in our lives?

I can think of times in my life when I recognized the active and dynamic Holy Spirit at work. It is a joy to witness the youngest children hearing God's good news and great love, each week. We walk alongside them, as we grow in our knowledge of God and bear fruit. As you have grown in your faith in this community over the years, you can see how all of the prayers, teaching, and mentoring have begun to blossom into wisdom.

What faith encounters can you recall that helped you grow in your wisdom and knowledge of God? Who was involved? How can you serve in the role of Paul, affirming and praying for believers as they grow in their faith and seek to lead lives worthy of the Lord?

Prayer for Today

God, We pray for understanding. Help us to be a part of a loving community where your Spirit moves. Let your Spirit develop the kind of wisdom that helps us to bear good fruit. In Christ's Name, Amen.