Unto You It Is Given

And when he was alone, they that were about him with the twelve asked of him the parable. And he said unto them, Unto you it is given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God: but unto them that are without, all these things are done in parables. (Mark 4:10-11)

This is something worth paying attention to. Jesus stated that the mystery of the kingdom is given to His own people, but for all others it remains wrapped up in parables. It's the same story, yet the outcome is completely different depending on who hears it. This shows how important your attitude is when you listen to the Word.

God isn’t keeping secrets from you or withholding information from people He doesn’t like. He is keeping the secrets for you to find. Understanding doesn’t happen automatically. Real understanding comes from leaning in, paying attention, and seeking it out. Everyone who was listening to Jesus in that boat heard the same things, but not everyone walked away with the same level of revelation.

Truth does not become revelation simply because you are in the room where the Word has been spoken aloud. Being present doesn’t guarantee an increase in revelation, knowledge, and understanding. That kind of wisdom comes only as a gift to those who are actively seeking renewal by the Word and are willing to do whatever it takes to receive it. Don’t act as if hearing the Word is simple. Give it awe, respect, and reverence when you listen, and expect to hear something that will change your life.

Practical Application

When you are next in church or reading the Bible, don't merely go through the experience. Make a real effort to take part. Engage, take notes, highlight, or do something to act on what you hear while you are receiving. 

Ephesians 1:17; Colossians 1:26