“You are permitted to understand the secrets of the Kingdom of Heaven, but others are not…For they look, but they don’t really see. They hear, but they don’t really listen or understand…For the hearts of these people are hardened…and they cannot turn to me and let me heal them.”
Matthew 13:11, 13, 15 NLT
After hearing that description, I certainly want to be one who understands God’s secrets! Jesus’ parables teach me the principles of Kingdom living, but I want to grasp His secrets, the foundation of His Kingdom.
Secrets are normally shared with those who listen well, so I've always considered it a privilege if someone shares a secret with me. The disciples were also privileged when Jesus shared His secrets with them, but it wasn’t because they were better than others—it was because they truly listened.
Jesus defined Kingdom secrets with words like humble, serving, merciful, peaceful, pure in heart, and childlike. Jesus taught those secrets by example. He showed us servanthood by humbly serving, mercy by giving mercy, being childlike by trusting His Father for everything. And Jesus expects Kingdom people to do the same.
Kingdom secrets can be hard to understand; they seem upside down according to human reasoning. However, Jesus said understanding has to do with the heart, and in His Kingdom, the key attitude is humility. If I build walls to protect MY image, I’ll never see God’s! If I shout MY wisdom, I’ll never hear His! In fact, without a humble heart, I will never understand God’s secrets.
“Father, please soften my heart with humility so I can understand Your secrets!”
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