Come Holy Spirit Series: The Spirit of Wisdom and Understanding.

 Come Holy Spirit Series

Come Holy Spirit

The Spirit of Wisdom and Understanding

“The Spirit of the Lord will rest on him—the Spirit of wisdom and understanding...”  Isaiah 11:2

Opening Reflection

As we journey deeper into our relationship with the Holy Spirit, we encounter this beautiful and powerful description from the prophet Isaiah. The Spirit of the Lord is not simply a force or a breath—but one who bestows wisdom and understanding. These are not worldly traits, but spiritual gifts—graces given for discernment, insight, and the living out of God’s will.

The Spirit of Wisdom and Understanding is the one who helps us make holy decisions, not just smart ones. It is the Spirit who draws us into the mind of Christ, helping us to see as God sees, and to love as God loves.

Scripture Insights

This title is first found in Isaiah’s prophecy of the coming Messiah—a promise fulfilled in Jesus Christ.

"The Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him: the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and fear of the Lord"   Isaiah 11:2

In Christ, we see these gifts in full measure—and through the Holy Spirit given to us, we are invited to share in them. Wisdom is not simply intelligence—it is the ability to choose the greater good in light of eternity. Understanding enables us to penetrate beneath surface appearances, to grasp the deeper truths of faith and life.

St. Paul echoes this theme when he prays:

“...that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him, having the eyes of your hearts enlightened…” Ephesians 1:17–18

This is not knowledge for its own sake, but for deeper intimacy with God.

The Spirit’s Work in Us

How does the Spirit of Wisdom and Understanding move in our lives today?

In Prayer: The Spirit helps us discern God’s will and not just our own desires. Sometimes we bring confusion or uncertainty to God—but the Spirit brings clarity and peace, even if the answers are not immediate.

In Daily Decisions: Whether we are facing a family dilemma, a ministry challenge, or just the ordinary questions of daily life, the Spirit provides insight—not always loud or dramatic, but a quiet light in our conscience.

If we are not used to listening to the Voice of the Spirit or have forgotten the sound of His voice, then it is often good to invite the Holy Spirit into our lives in the everyday details of our lives.  For example: ask the Holy Spirit which way should I travel to work today- I was going to an event in the evening.  I find driving at night difficult because of other drivers lights. So I asked to the Holy Spirit to help me drive safely and get me there as it was also raining quite hard.  I thought I knew where I was going as I go to this venue often.  However I ended up in the wrong lane and had not a clue where I was going.  The Holy Spirit guided me this other way with very little oncoming traffic and as a result less bright lights in my eyes. Yes I arrived safely.

When we continually invite the Holy Spirit into the daily decisions of our lives, we get to know how He speaks to us personally. We know the sound of His Voice or the feeling of the Holy Spirit in our hearts.  

In Suffering: When life doesn’t make sense, the Spirit of Understanding gives us faith to trust in what we cannot yet see and wisdom to find meaning even in trials.

In Relationships: The Spirit teaches us when to speak, when to be silent, and how to listen with the heart. We can ask the Holy Spirit to give us the words, the body language and way of being in any situation- do I speak, do I remain silent and how to listen with compassion.

Personal Reflection

1. When have I recently experienced a moment of clarity or insight that I knew came from God?
2. Where in my life am I currently seeking wisdom or understanding?
3. Am I open to the Holy Spirit changing my perspective—even if it means letting go of my plans?

 

Prayer to the Spirit of Wisdom and Understanding

Come, Holy Spirit, Spirit of Wisdom and Understanding.

Enlighten my heart and mind so that I may know the things of God and discern His will in all I do.
Help me not to lean on my own limited understanding, but to trust in Your promptings.
When I am uncertain, bring clarity.
When I am proud, bring humility.
When I am scattered, bring focus.
Amen.

Spirit of Jesus, rest upon me, that I may live with the mind of Christ.