Luke 2:40 (KJV) “And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him.”
After the birth of Jesus Christ in Bethlehem of Judaea, Mary and Joseph with the child Jesus, returned into Galilee, to their own city Nazareth (Luke 2:39). In our Scriptural text, the Bible speaks about four things that happened with Jesus: He grew physically, waxed strong in spirit, was filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was upon Him. In preparation for the New Year, we should consider paying attention to these four things.
1. “And the child grew” - This speaks of physical growth. It is of great importance that we prosper in our health (3John 1:2). Pay attention to your health because your spirit needs your physical body to operate in this world.
2. “Waxed strong in spirit” - This refers to spiritual maturity. The Bible says, “be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might” (Eph. 6:10; KJV). The Greek word translated “be strong” is endunamoō. It means to “be empowered”, “be enabled” or “increase in spiritual strength.” This is important because we are daily engaged in spiritual warfare, whether we know it or not (Eph 6:12).
3. “Filled with wisdom” – The Bible says, “Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding” (Pro. 4:7). Divine wisdom is the God-given ability to see things from God’s perspective and to act in alignment with His will. It goes beyond intelligence, education, or experience. We can ask the Almighty God to fill us with divine wisdom (James 1:5).
4. “And the grace of God was upon Him” – The grace of God here speaks of God’s favour, approval, and empowering presence rested on a man. God’s favour upon a man produces results that human effort alone cannot achieve; it opens doors no one can shut. Divine favour creates supernatural opportunities beyond human qualification.
Written by: Andrew A. Esemudje