Journeys Through the Word

“Yes, Father, it pleased You to do it this way!”

Verse(s) considered:

Matthew 11:25-30

(25)  At that time Jesus prayed this prayer: “O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, thank You for hiding these things from those who think themselves wise and clever, and for revealing them to the childlike.

(26)  Yes, Father, it pleased You to do it this way!

Thoughts along the road:

This section precedes a much more famous section but is equally important for us to understand. Jesus rightfully thanks the Father for hiding truth from those who think they are smart. Then, he thanks the Father for revealing them to the childlike. It is interesting to note that he says that it pleased the Father to reveal truth in this way.

Where to go from here:

What on earth is he talking about? The smart people. The wise and clever people seem always to have a corner on the understanding of truth and the mysteries of the universe, don’t they? At least I think that is how things work. We sit and listen to the words of the clever, wise, and beautiful people whose lives seem to be all together as though they themselves are the source of all knowledge and wisdom. Stop that bus, I want to get off.

I think that Jesus is telling us that we are looking to the wrong sources for an understanding of truth, of the mysteries of life and the universe. Those clever and wise people are definitely smart and gifted in many ways. But, Jesus here is telling us that God had hidden the most important truths and wisdom from those who think themselves clever and wise. Those who are childlike in their understanding  know that all truth really only comes from the mind of God.

What does it mean to be childlike? It means that we look to our parent, our Father in Heaven for real truth and wisdom. We don’t question it in light of current events. God’s truth is eternal. As childlike believers, we look only to him to give us the understanding, knowledge, and insights  we need to navigate the daily path of life.

As that childlike believer, I look to God for his truth. The best way to find it is in the scripture. Daily reading in God’s word is a necessity for us as his followers. Stop looking for wise and clever men to follow and look only to the Father for wisdom and understanding. Read his word and accept the truth he teaches you in it. That would please the Father.