Spiritual growth

Ephesians  1:17 That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him:  1:18 The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints,

Spiritual growth is the journey of becoming more like Christ in our thoughts, actions, and character. It is not a static event but a continuous process of transformation and deepening intimacy with God. Paul’s prayer highlights two key aspects necessary for this growth: wisdom and revelation from the Spirit, and enlightenment of the heart.

Paul’s plea for the Ephesians to receive the Spirit of wisdom and revelation signifies the necessity of divine insight for knowing God. Wisdom here is not merely human understanding but the divine wisdom that comes from the Holy Spirit. Revelation refers to the unveiling of truths about God and His will that we cannot grasp through our natural intellect alone.

The ultimate purpose of receiving this wisdom and revelation is so that we may know God better. Knowing God is the foundation of spiritual growth. It is an experiential knowledge, marked by a personal relationship with Him. As we know God more intimately, our lives are transformed. This knowledge moves us from merely knowing about God to truly knowing Him in a way that impacts our daily lives.

Paul also prays that the eyes of the believers' hearts may be enlightened. The heart in biblical terms encompasses our mind, will, and emotions. Enlightenment here means being flooded with divine light so we can perceive spiritual realities clearly. When our hearts are enlightened, we begin to see things from God’s perspective.

We are also made to  understand the hope to which we are called. This hope is not wishful thinking but a confident expectation rooted in God’s promises. It encompasses our salvation, our relationship with God, and our eternal destiny. Recognizing this hope empowers us to live with purpose and joy, even amid trials.

Paul also wants us to grasp the riches of our inheritance in God. This inheritance is not just future glory but includes the abundant life we have in Christ now. It speaks of the spiritual blessings, the power of the Holy Spirit, and the assurance of God’s love and presence with us.

Life Application

1. Seek the Spirit of Wisdom and Revelation: Regularly pray, as Paul did, for the Spirit to grant you wisdom and revelation. Engage with Scripture and be open to the Spirit’s teaching.

2. Pursue Intimacy with God: Spend time in prayer, worship, and meditation on God’s word. Foster a relationship with God that goes beyond surface-level rituals to deep, heartfelt communion.

3. Embrace Enlightenment: Ask God to enlighten the eyes of your heart. Be attentive to how God might be revealing Himself and His will to you in everyday circumstances.

4. Live in Hope: Anchor your life in the hope of God’s calling. Let this hope shape your attitude and actions, giving you strength to endure and thrive.

5.  Enjoy Your Inheritance: Recognize and celebrate the spiritual riches you have in Christ. Let these blessings fuel your gratitude and motivate you to share God’s love with others.

In conclusion, spiritual growth is a journey empowered by the Holy Spirit, rooted in a deepening knowledge of God, enlightened by divine insight, and sustained by the hope and riches of our calling in Christ. As we continually seek the Spirit’s wisdom and revelation, may our hearts be ever more enlightened, and may we grow in the fullness of our relationship with God. Amen.

God bless you.

Prayer key :

1. Lord, thank you for the blessing of your word today in Jesus Christ name.

2. Lord, make me grow in you always in Jesus Christ name.

3. Lord, grant me spiritual wisdom and revelation of your fullness in Jesus Christ name.

4. Thank you Lord for answered prayers in Jesus Christ name. Amen.