Revcort's Ramblings

Scripture Focus

“And he said to them, ‘To you has been given the secret of the kingdom of God, but for those outside everything is in parables, so that “they may indeed see but not perceive, and may indeed hear but not understand, lest they should turn and be forgiven.”’” – Mark 4:11–12 (ESV)

Devotional Thought

These verses can unsettle us if we take them seriously. Jesus is clear: not everyone will understand His teaching. To some, the parables reveal truth. To others, they remain stories that never penetrate the heart. Why? Jesus explains that “to you it has been given” — understanding is a gift of God’s grace.

The problem Is not with the clarity of the gospel but with the condition of the human heart. Sin blinds us. Satan deceives us. Every one of us begins in that same darkness, unable to see or hear spiritual truth. If we have come to faith, it is only because God’s grace broke through, opened our eyes, and gave us ears to hear.

That reality should humble us. None of us believed because we were smarter, more moral, or more spiritual than others. We believed because God was merciful. At the same time, this truth should stir urgency for prayer and witness. Many remain blind, and only God can open their eyes.

The question then Is not whether all will hear, but whether we will listen. “He who has ears to hear, let him hear.” Will we receive the Word with faith and obedience, or will we harden our hearts?

Reflection Questions

1. Do I recognize that understanding the gospel is a gift of God’s grace, not my achievement?
2. Am I praying for those who remain blind to the truth of Christ?
3. How am I showing humility and gratitude for the mercy that opened my eyes?

Closing Prayer

Lord, thank You for opening my eyes when I was blind and giving me ears to hear when I could not listen. Keep me humble, grateful, and faithful to Your Word. Stir my heart to pray for others who have yet to see the beauty of Christ. May Your mercy break through their blindness as it did mine. Amen.