Understanding
This word, as with many of our English words has multiple meanings. It can mean “the mental process of a person who comprehends” or it can mean “a mutual agreement”. The root word, understand means “to perceive or grasp the meaning of an idea or concept.” For example, I understand Real Estate because I work in it, have experience in it and I keep up with continuing education is the field. There are other fields of work that I understand from experience or education as well. I love learning. I enjoy learning more from the Lord in His Word each day. It’s not chemistry or math, it’s simply seeing the heart of God in His Word. Paul asked for prayer and offers encouragement over the church at Thessalonica. Check this out….
1Finally, dear brothers and sisters, we ask you to pray for us. Pray that the Lord’s message will spread rapidly and be honored wherever it goes, just as when it came to you. 2 Pray, too, that we will be rescued from wicked and evil people, for not everyone is a believer. 3 But the Lord is faithful; he will strengthen you and guard you from the evil one. 4 And we are confident in the Lord that you are doing and will continue to do the things we commanded you. 5 May the Lord lead your hearts into a full understanding and expression of the love of God and the patient endurance that comes from Christ. (2 Thessalonians 3:1-5 NLT)
I want to keep growing in my understanding of God and His Word. I want to know His heart and have Him shape and mold my heart. I don’t ever want to get so “full of myself” that I can’t hear Him speak into my heart. I want to fully understand God’s love for me and for the world He created. I want my life to reflect His Presence in me.
I’m not really crazy about the second part of this prayer – patient endurance. I’m not super patient. I’ve learned to stop praying for patience. I really want what I want now! As I walk with the Lord, I realize that timing is a big deal to the Lord. I must trust His timing. I must trust His will for me. I think that patience does come after understanding. I’m learning that I can’t rush things with the Lord. His timing is perfect and impeccable. He’s never too late or too early. He’s always on time.
I just want my understanding of God’s heart to keep expanding as I walk with Him each day.
Pressing On!
Dwayne