God’s Desire to Be Understood

 

Scripture Readings:

• Matthew 24:15 – “So when you see standing in the holy place ‘the abomination that causes desolation,’ spoken of through the prophet Daniel—let the reader understand.”

• Revelation 1:3 – “Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it, because the time is near.”

• Matthew 11:29 – “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”

• Jeremiah 9:23-24 – “This is what the Lord says: ‘Let not the wise boast of their wisdom or the strong boast of their strength or the rich boast of their riches, but let the one who boasts boast about this: that they have the understanding to know me, that I am the Lord, who exercises kindness, justice and righteousness on earth, for in these I delight,’ declares the Lord.”

One of the greatest truths of Scripture is that God desires to be known and understood by His people. He is not a distant or hidden deity, but a God who reveals Himself through His Word, His works, and ultimately through Jesus Christ. The passages we have read today emphasize God’s intention for us to understand Him—not just intellectually, but in a way that transforms our lives.

God Calls Us to Seek Understanding (Matthew 24:15, Revelation 1:3)

In Matthew 24:15, Jesus speaks of a prophecy from Daniel and urges His followers: “Let the reader understand.” Similarly, in Revelation 1:3, there is a blessing for those who read, hear, and take to heart God’s message. These verses remind us that God does not want His truth to remain a mystery; He provides His Word so that we may comprehend His plans and be prepared.

Jesus Invites Us to Learn from Him (Matthew 11:29)

Jesus’ words in Matthew 11:29 are both an invitation and a reassurance: “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me.” He does not burden us with knowledge that is beyond our grasp; instead, He teaches with gentleness, guiding us toward spiritual rest and wisdom. His heart’s desire is that we walk closely with Him, learning from His example and drawing from His strength.

True Understanding Comes from Knowing God (Jeremiah 9:23-24)

In Jeremiah 9:23-24, the Lord declares that the greatest knowledge is not human wisdom, strength, or riches, but the understanding of who He is—His kindness, justice, and righteousness. God’s revelation is not reserved for the elite; it is given to those who seek Him with humility. The most important knowledge we can attain is the knowledge of God Himself.

We can Know Jesus

God has made Himself known through prophecy, through His Son, and through His Word. He desires that we understand Him, not just to gain knowledge, but to grow in relationship with Him. If we seek Him earnestly, He will open our hearts and minds, leading us into the fullness of His truth.

Let us, therefore, commit ourselves to studying His Word, listening to His Spirit, and walking in His ways, that we may truly know the Lord and delight in His presence.

More: Sabbath School Lesson 1 Some Principles of Prophecy