In our last visit we discovered in Isaiah 50:4-5 how Jesus received “an instructed tongue to know the word that sustains the weary.” In short, He was a devoted student.
Listen to the description of His experience again: “The Sovereign Lord has given me an instructed tongue, to know the word that sustains the weary. He wakens me morning by morning, wakens my ear to listen like one being taught. The Sovereign Lord has opened my ears, and I have not been rebellious; I have not drawn back.”
“Morning” suggests a time for study when you have been refreshed by a night’s sleep. “Morning by morning” suggests making time for study regularly, day by day. “Wakened” and “opened” ears suggest a receptive attitude. And the phrases, “I have not been rebellious, I have not drawn back” suggest a responsive mind and heart. When these characteristics are present – refreshed, regular, receptive, responsive – you will be rewarded as Jesus was with “an instructed tongue.”
There are no short cuts. It takes time and discipline to follow in the steps of Jesus, and it all starts with listening to Him.
Let me note here that there are some who are most awake and ready to listen and learn later in the day or even in the evening. Choose whatever time is best for you, then make time regularly to listen to Jesus.
As you meet with Him be sure to be receptive and responsive. As you listen to Jesus you’d be wise to also look at His example. This is described in Isaiah 50:6-9. I’d encourage you to read it over a few times in preparation for our next visit.
