The Holy Spirit Gives Wisdom
Reading: Acts 6:1-7
Key verse: “… but we will give ourselves continually to prayer and to the ministry of the word.” Acts 6:4 (NKJV)
As the followers of Jesus continued to grow, a divisive issue came up among them (Acts 6:1-2). Some felt neglected in the distribution of food among the poor and the widows. The first disciples of Jesus became the church leaders and were called apostles. When the grievance was brought to the attention of the apostles, they all had a meeting together to address the issue – proper distribution to those who were in need. With the wisdom of the Holy Spirit, the apostles made a recommendation to appoint qualified men who were full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom to take care of the needs of the poor:
“…but we will give ourselves continually to prayer and to the ministry of the word.” Acts 6:4 (NKJV)
The apostles knew the heart of God and Jesus – to preach the Gospel of salvation, heal the sick, encourage the downcast, set people free from sin and evil, feed the hungry, etc. As the church was growing, the apostles realized the task of taking care of everyone and everything was beyond themselves.
As the Holy Spirit gave wisdom and guidance to the apostles to address the issue and meet the needs of everyone, they were able to keep their focus and priority, which were prayer and the ministry of the Word.
Staying connected to the Lord through prayer was very important for church leaders, so they would have the power and wisdom they needed to lead the new and growing church. The ministry of the Word – studying the Word of God so that they could preach and teach with power – was very important too for new believers and disciples to grow in their faith.
Besides freeing church leaders from unnecessary responsibilities, this plan also gave opportunity for other disciples to step up and use their skills, gifts, and talents which God had given them by helping the poor, the needy, and the widows. The apostles did not just choose or recommend any member, but highly qualified men who were full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom such as Stephen and the others. The church leaders also prayed and laid hands on them. Thus, the conflict was resolved, the issue was properly addressed, and the needs were met. As a result, the word of God spread more, and the number of disciples multiplied greatly (Acts 6:7).
Reflection:
For followers of Jesus, the Holy Spirit gives wisdom to resolve issues and meet needs. The Holy Spirit also gives wisdom to keep our focus and priorities straight as we follow the leading and call of God in our lives.
Prayer: Dear Lord Jesus, Holy Spirit, please give us your followers your spirit of wisdom to keep our priorities right. Amen!
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