Daily text, Wednesday, February 10. 2016

[Queen Esther]

Happy are your eyes because they see and your ears because they hear.—Matt. 13:16.

Why were Jesus’ disciples able to understand when others were not? Because they were willing to search for the real meaning behind Jesus’ words, build on what they had already accepted, and use what they had heard in their personal lives and in helping others. (Matt. 13:11, 12, 36, 51, 52) If we want to understand Jesus’ illustrations, we need to follow the example of his faithful disciples. First, we need to be willing to take the time to study and meditate on what Jesus said, to do the necessary research, and to ask the appropriate questions. This leads to knowledge. (Prov. 2:4, 5) Next, we need to see how that knowledge fits in with what we already know, discerning its benefit to us personally. That results in understanding. (Prov. 2:2, 3) Finally, we should use what we have learned, putting it into action in our lives. This shows wisdom on our part.—Prov. 2:6, 7. w14 12/15 1:3, 4