Understanding
In school, some people are really good at taking tests. They may
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memorize dates or formulas, yet not really understand how or
why something is the way it is. So it is with our faith. I like to
put it like this: there is a big difference between knowing about Jesus
and knowing Jesus. The former can come through information, but
the latter comes through the gift of Understanding.
Understanding helps us “get” the things of heaven. It helps us comprehend
more fully the mind of God and the mysteries of the Kingdom.
In fact, a great synonym for Understanding would be comprehension.
Understanding takes us beyond mere assent to the truths of
the faith and to certitude. Understanding leads to Wisdom.
There is a wonderful Scripture passage about the gift of Understanding.
In 1 Kings 3, God says to Solomon, “Ask something of me and I
will give it to you.” Solomon could have asked for anything – riches,
long life, good health, anything! Solomon replied, “Give your servant,
therefore, an understanding heart to judge your people and to
distinguish right from wrong.” And the Scripture says, “The Lord
was pleased that Solomon made this request. So God said to him:
‘Because you have asked for this – not for a long life for yourself,
nor for riches, nor for the life of your enemies, but for understanding
so that you may know what is right – I do as you requested. I
give you a heart so wise and understanding that there has never been
anyone like you up to now, and after you there will come no one to
equal you.’”
I encourage you to know more about Jesus. But I encourage you
even more to know Jesus and the mysteries of the Kingdom better,
by praying for a greater outpouring of the gift of Understanding.
For further study:
1 Kings 3:5-14