The greatest grace among God’s grace is found in gaining understanding. Those who lack understanding are like the beasts that perish (Psalm 49:20). Those who lack understanding don’t receive healing (Matt. 13:14-15). Those who lack understanding cannot bear abundant fruit. Abundance of fruit comes to those who understand (Matt. 13:23). To understand means to comprehend. We are frustrated and displeased when we do not comprehend the things we should comprehend. In contrast, when we comprehend the things we should comprehend our hearts are relieved and delighted.
Understanding is ‘opening.’ Understanding is experiencing the opening of what was once closed. When something closed is opened we experience something new. We enter into a new dimension. When an understanding comes upon us we begin to see the things we couldn’t see before and hear the things we couldn’t hear before. Understanding is awakening. Awakening is coming into awareness of something. A moment of awakening is the moment of self-discovery. Most people do not know themselves well. They often deceive themselves and wear many masks in life. And because they don’t know themselves, they cannot know others well either. However, when understanding comes, their masks are uncovered. They see their true selves.
When self-discovery takes place, healing does as well. Healing comes from a phrase ‘gaining an insight.’ A moment of self-discovery is the moment of insight. A moment of insight is the moment of understanding. When we gain insight, we exclaim, “A-ha!” With such an exclamation, a person recognizes who he or she is and exclaims, “A-ha, this is the kind of person I am!” And that is when the resolution for a problem is found, and the origin of one’s problem is understood. He or she comes to understand the roots of one’s insecurity, depression, fear, anger, and pain. When we gain insight, we discover the cause, not the symptom. And we begin to examine the root of the problem. We call this ‘insight.’ The word insight contains a meaning of ‘seeing from within.’ Insight is not just seeing the visible side of the matter but also the hidden side of it. In other words, insight is seeing through the heart of the matter.
When we discover ourselves through understanding, we begin to understand others. And we also begin to understand the logic of life. Most of all, we come to know the depth of God. Through what process does the Holy Spirit gives us the grace of understanding?
First, we must listen attentively. We understand when we listen attentively to the Word of God. Understanding comes to us when we listen carefully to the words of others. God allows us to hear His voice through the Word and people. It is wisdom to listen attentively. Wisdom and intelligence are given through ‘a listening heart.’
Second, we must observe closely. Observing is seeing. Rather than closing your eyes, keep them open. Rather than just glancing, look carefully. In order to see well, we must empty our hearts. Let go of your stereotypes and biases. That’s when we begin to see rightly. Don’t just see with your eyes, but see with your heart. When we observe, we must not just open our eyes but also our heart and ears. Those who are visually impaired and those who play music see through their hearing. They see through their senses.
Third, we must contemplate deeply. Contemplation is reflection and deep consideration. To consider is to think deeply. It is to effectuate the thinking. Contemplation is considering deeply as you connect the things you discover through the process of comparing, consolidating, and assimilating the things you saw and heard. When I prepare a message or write something, I gather important data and references. In this process, I listen carefully and observe. At the same time, I consider deeply. I go through the process of long and enduring meditation. That’s when I experience the moment of insight.
Fourth, we must discern with insight. Insight feels like it takes place in a moment, but insight is what comes in the process of listening carefully, observing closely, and contemplating deeply. Insight is not just given to us. It is a moment of grace to those who longs, studies, discovers, and considers to gain understanding. This is the mystery of understanding. Understanding doesn’t come to the lazy. Understanding comes to the diligent.
Fifth, we must examine carefully. Examination is observing oneself. Most of all, we must observe whether what we have understood is in alignment with God’s Word. We must observe how our understanding is related to Christ who was nailed on the cross. We must observe whether our understanding is not derived from our hidden greed or ambition. No matter how great of an idea it may be, if it is not aligned to the Word and the will of God, we must be able to let go of it boldly. That is when we enter into a higher stage of enlightenment. May the grace of understanding be upon those of you who long to have true understanding.
Reverend Joshua Choon-Min Kang is the senior pastor of New Life Vision Church in Los Angeles, CA.
