Contemplative Bible Reading

Ephesians 1:16b-17 (New Living Translation)

16b I pray for you constantly, 17 asking God, the glorious Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, to give you spiritual wisdom and insight so that you might grow in your knowledge of God.

Paul describes his prayer for Christians living in Ephesus. Among several things, Paul asks that God will give them spiritual wisdom and insight.

Paul does not ask for business acumen or the ability to invent airplanes in the year 55 (1,850 years ahead of the Wright Brothers). No, spiritual wisdom and insight. Something powerful and worthwhile. With those things, the people would know God better—not just a little, but a lot, deep and wide and rich.

I feel that I know God better today than 30 years ago. Probably better than 10 years ago. That is comforting. Things roll off me easier these days. I’m not as upset now. Life is more pleasant. Sure, there are bad days, there are very bad days, but I am given my daily bread—what I need for each day.

Thank you God. Please bless others with greater spiritual wisdom and insight.