Finding The Truth

 

         I remember taking the Praxis exams when I was ready to graduate from College.  As I was waiting in the lobby before the time to enter the exam room, the students there were discussing the likelihood of passing it the first time.  One student said, “I’ve already taken it twice, I’m hoping three is the charm.”  Another agreed and acknowledged it was her second try, while still another commented she knew one student who took it many more times (than three) to finally be able to pass it successfully.

For just a moment, I panicked.  This was my first effort and I had no desire to take it again.  Since writing is my ‘thing’ I wasn’t horribly concerned about the Language side of it, but Math was another beast altogether! 

One of the elements of the test includes reading short stories (or paragraphs) and then being able to answer questions which determines your understanding level of what is written.  I was amazed with how many students were terrified of this component of the test.  My perspective held with it being no different than having a conversation with someone, and seemed perfectly logical.  

That said, when reading the Bible as a Believer, it’s completely different!  While the words can make perfect sense, with a perfectly clear secular understanding, what God wants us to ‘hear’ or ‘understand’ can be completely different!  The Holy Spirit can step in and give us insight on a scripture we’ve read a hundred times, and either missed a very relevant point, or see the point from a completely different perspective!  

It's the growing process, I believe; kind of like when a little person is learning to talk.  They say part of a word as they understand it, and then it changes later, and then finally to where understanding the word is possible from those hearing it.  Even then, the child still may not have a clear understanding of what he is saying!  (Our young grandson learned to sing a song, but when asked if he understood the words, he didn’t have a clue!)

A friend tells the story of not knowing much about God as a child.  It wasn’t until she was an adult and turning the pages of her father’s Bible which was discovered some years after his death, when she happened on scripture he’d underlined.  Even with the reading of the words, she couldn’t understand.  Her heart wasn’t ready; but the words stayed with her.

Eventually she re-read those underlined words and realization became clear.  She allowed the Holy Spirit to open her mind and her heart; accepting the words as Truth.  Over time she gained wisdom and understanding; now recognizing the words of guidance, found between the covers of the Book, for her life.

God’s Word is still as relevant today as it was centuries ago when it was written.  Understanding can only come when we are open, like my friend, making those Words relevant to every facet of our lives.  It doesn’t have be something to be feared like the Praxis test I took years ago.  The Holy Spirit wants willing hearts and minds to stir and mold, as we are shaped into the person and workers He wants us to be, to further His Kingdom.  Allow the Holy Spirit to move you and give you insight into the words you are reading.

Photo Credit: https://depositphotos.com/1523697/stock-photo-old-book-with-ray-of.html