I enjoy hiking and exploring, but I hike established trails during the day and I take a map to keep me going in the right direction. I always hike with family or friends. We learn a great deal by personal discovery, but we also learn from listening to everything and everyone around us. Sharing experiences, in God’s creation, is a wonderful part of life.
When I step out to explore the spiritual mysteries of God’s Word, I must invite the Spirit to bring me understanding, so I will properly interpret the directional ways and will of God. Remember, according to Peter, no prophecy in Scripture ever came from the prophet’s own understanding or from human initiation (2 Peter 1:20-21). Our understanding of Scripture must be accurate, because we are illuminating lights listening to God and following the truth.
In our passage today, Jesus wants his disciples to know they are examples of the revealed Word; they must listen in order to understand. As well, they must use their faith to put the Word into practice, because in doing so they will gain more and more understanding. When we apply God’s Word accurately, we become lights for others to see God.
Today, as Christ’s disciples, we are to be examples of the applied Word. We must use what we have been given and put Christ’s teachings into practice. Don’t let the enemy snuff out your light. Gain understanding by being still in the Spirit, as well as sharing and talking about spiritual things with mature Christians who are on the righteous path with you.
Mark 4:21-25 NLT Parable of the Lamp
21 Then Jesus asked them, “Would anyone light a lamp and then put it under a basket or under a bed? Of course not! A lamp is placed on a stand, where its light will shine. 22 For everything that is hidden will eventually be brought into the open, and every secret will be brought to light. 23 Anyone with ears to hear should listen and understand.”
24 Then he added, “Pay close attention to what you hear. The closer you listen, the more understanding you will be given—and you will receive even more. 25 To those who listen to my teaching, more understanding will be given. But for those who are not listening, even what little understanding they have will be taken away from them.”
Prayer: Lord, thank you for the light of Truth living in us. We are to be illuminating the reality of your presence in us every day by how we live. Help us listen and do as you command, so we can continue to grow in our understanding. In Jesus’ name. Amen.