Treasure maps, treasure hunts, treasure chests—the allure of looking for clues, solving mysteries, and finding hidden treasures invites us to explore. Secret codes and unknown discoveries seem intriguing, and we are excited about the search.
This brings me to the question: What are you searching for or seeking to gain in this New Year? We often set goals and plan to accomplish many tasks. This is a time of new beginnings, and we pause to consider some changes or adjustments in our everyday lives.
My goal is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.
- Colossians 2:2-3 NIV
The apostle Paul wrote these words from a prison in Rome. As he awaited trial, his thoughts and prayers were with the believers in Colossae. Paul wanted them to feel encouraged and united, and to walk in the full wisdom and knowledge of Jesus Christ.
Be Encouraged in Heart
These verses reveal Paul’s deep concern for people. He yearns to see everyone strengthened in their personal relationship with Christ. He also desires for them to engage in fellowship and unity within the body of Christ, which provides encouragement, comfort, confidence, and hope. When brothers and sisters in Christ stand united, the love of Jesus binds us together in a strong bond of love.
Know the Mystery of God
Through his words of encouragement, Paul stressed that the treasures of wisdom and knowledge are found only in Christ. When we actively seek the riches of understanding, the Holy Spirit will reveal greater truth and understanding to us. In the second chapter of Proverbs, we are instructed to cherish the Lord’s commandments, direct our listening ears, and open our hearts toward wisdom and understanding.
If you seek it like silver and search for it as for hidden treasures, then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God. For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.
- Proverbs 2:4-6
Head to Heart
What are you seeking? Where is your treasure map?
I want to encourage us to open God’s Word and ask Him to teach us each day. When we seek His treasure, He will reveal His words of wisdom and understanding.
You may be asking, “Where do I begin?” The Bible is a large book. It can be daunting, confusing, and overwhelming.
A great place to start is with the books of Psalms and Proverbs. The Gospel of John in the New Testament is another excellent choice. Reading is not about how many verses or chapters you cover each day; it is about seeking to know the Lord better and aligning our hearts with His wisdom and understanding.
This is truly a “head-to-heart” treasure hunt.
This was wonderful. I have always loved "in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge".
Thank you for sharing. It’s so encouraging to read your comment. I agree with you. This is such a powerful and rich phrase in Colossians.