JESUS SPEAKING

   At that time Jesus answered and said, “I thank You, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because You have hidden these things from the wise and prudent and have revealed them to babes.  Even so, Father, because it seemed good in Your sight.  All things have been delivered to Me by my Father, and no one knows the Son except the Father.  Nor does anyone know the Father except the Son, and the one to whom the son wills to reveal Him.” (Matthew 11: 25-27)

FAITHFUL THOUGHTS

In the Jewish culture, youth was often associated with ignorance, inexperience, and stupidity.  Many believed that with old age came great wisdom.  Jesus however corrected this commonly held belief.  Wisdom concerning the Messiah and God’s plan of salvation couldn’t be attained through numerous years of careful study; instead, the truth could only be received as a gift from God.  Those who considered themselves intelligent were blinded by pride and chose to rely upon their own understanding. But the simple and the ignorant could more clearly see the value of God’s grace and the blessings of eternal life through faith in Jesus Christ.

Concerning intelligence and stupidity, there once lived a man named Sigmund Freud. He pioneered what we might now call the modern field of psychology.  In fact, many learned academics today consider him to be one of the most intelligent men who has ever lived.  And yet, most are unaware that at one point in his career he actively promoted the use of cocaine; believing it to be a cure for many of life’s common ailments.  He even encouraged his close acquaintances and compatriots to indulge in its use.  When one of his dear friends became horribly addicted to the drug, he observed the dangers of cocaine and anxiously recanted his previous promotions. He carried the guilt of his friend’s drug dependence for many years.  And so we can see that some of the most well educated and intelligent people are often the most horribly deceived.

     The truth is a gift from The Lord (it’s not something that can be earned or attained.)  Intelligence, although extremely useful, can sometimes blind those who trust in it more than God.  The Lord yearns for His children to trust Him completely.  Those who are simple, unlearned, and unwise, are often the first to realize the true value of God’s mercy and grace.  May we receive the gospel today as little children. May we believe with our whole hearts and embrace a simple faith.

     “Lord Heavenly Father, may we become as little children.  May we trust in, and rely upon You completely.  We pray for those who are intelligent and wise in their own minds; who place their faith in the achievements of men.  Reveal the truth to them; that they too might come to know and accept Your salvation and mercy. We love You Father, we praise You, and we thank You, and we ask and pray all of these things, according to Your will, in Jesus Christ’s name,  Amen.”  God bless all of you!