JOYFUL UNDERSTANDING

Neh. 8:11, 12  And the Levites, too, quieted the people telling them, “Hush!  Don’t weep!  For this is a sacred day.  So the people went away to eat and drink at a festive meal, to share gifts of food, and to celebrate with great joy because they had heard God’s words and understood them.

     When was the last time you were in a festive mood because you had heard God’s Word and understood it?  Sounds kind of strange doesn’t it?  We just don’t get too excited when we hear the Word and understand it.  We are far more likely to be stoic rather than jubilant over it.  Some people like to say “Amen” when they hear truths they understand and agree with.  Most people don’t.  As a preacher, I enjoy hearing affirmation from people when the Word is proclaimed.  It tells me that what I am saying is being heard, understood and received. 

      Now, it is important that the Word be presented in such a way that understanding is possible.  Words should never be spoken that hinder understanding.  I believe it is wrong to use flowery speech to say what can be said in much simpler words.  It is wrong to gloat over those who don’t understand what you say.  It is wrong to withhold understanding from others when you have the opportunity to give it to them.  And, it is wrong to give others anything but the Word because it is the only thing that needs to be understood for eternal life.

       Thank the Lord for those who have brought understanding to you.  Thank Him for the opportunities He has given you to bring understanding to others.

       Rejoice over those things the Lord has revealed to you in His Word.  Rejoice over the new things He helps you to understand.  Rejoice when others hear the Word with understanding hearts.  Let there be great joy in the camp of the redeemed!

      And, pray for those who don’t have the opportunities you have to hear the Word and understand it.  Pray that the Lord will get through to those who are denied access to the truth due to false teachings.  Pray that the body of Christ will grow in grace and truth until Jesus comes.