Matthew 13:34,35
‘All these things Jesus spoke to the crowds in parables, and He did not speak anything to them without a parable. This was so that what was spoken through the prophet would be fulfilled: “I WILL OPEN MY MOUTH IN PARABLES; I WILL PROCLAIM THINGS HIDDEN SINCE THE FOUNDATION OF THE WORLD.”’
This is an ingenious tactic. Jesus mainly taught in parables. He was sharing amazing truths for those who wanted them. If they didn’t want them, the seed planted by Jesus, the Holy Spirit, scripture or us will wither and die.
Why does He do this? It keeps people from trampling down on the valuable truths of God. Matthew 7:6 says, “Do not give dogs what is holy; do not throw your pearls before swine. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and then turn and tear you to pieces.” So to prevent that Jesus spoke in parables.
The parables will pique the interest of some. If they want more they will pray for understanding. God will open their eyes. That will plant the seed of God’s Word deep in one’s heart which will grow into a healthy plant.
We will keep on learning until we are heaven. I’ve read many passages several times and thought I have gleaned all there is to learn. Not so. Psalm 23 is one example. I had heard it a hundred times and I had grown bored of it. Then a couple of years ago it became quite applicable. I love it. I will spend time and pray through it.
We are to humbly go to Him and ask for connection and help. We have to be careful for pride. James 4:6 says, ‘But he gives more grace. Therefore it says, “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.”’ As pride takes a foothold in our lives, we begin to be separated from God. We lose connection with Him and we begin to drift. Unfortunately, we lose our ability to sense that.
Hebrews 5:11-114 speaks of being dull of hearing. “of whom (Melchizedek) we have much to say, and hard to explain, since you have become dull of hearing. For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the first principles of the oracles of God; and you have come to need milk and not solid food. For everyone who partakes only of milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, for he is a babe. But solid food belongs to those who are of full age, that is, those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.” These verses aren’t blaming pride for their being dull of hearing, but not having the discipline to stick with something to grow.
The writer brings up an interesting topic, spiritual senses. He says, “who because of practice have their senses trained to distinguish between good and evil”, (New American Standard). What are these? As we walk with Christ we become in tune with the Holy Spirit. We learn to sense what He wants us to sense. We also learn what displeases Him. As well as guidance. How does this happen? He gives us peace and joy. As we venture into areas He doesn’t want us to go, that peace disappears. We know to stop and ask. Sometimes it’s to proceed with caution. It usually means to turn around. He also works through closed doors. An opportunity will dry up. He’s protecting us. Don’t try to force doors open that He has closed.
Lord, give us ears to hear. Help us to weed out pride and to have the discipline to stay with You and what You want to teach us. Thank You for the spiritual senses You work within us. Help us to walk worthy.