Hearing God’s Word Is Not Enough – We Must Understand It
Daniel 12:8 (NKJV) says:
“Although I heard, I did not understand. Then I said, ‘My lord, what shall be the end of these things?'”
Daniel declared that he heard (the word of God) but did not understand. This verse therefore highlights a crucial truth—hearing the Word of God is not the same as understanding it. Many people hear sermons, read the Bible, and listen to teachings, but without understanding, they do not experience true transformation. Understanding is the gateway to applying God’s Word in our lives, and that is what builds faith and leads to spiritual growth.
The Parable of the Sower – The Importance of Understanding
Jesus illustrated this truth in the Parable of the Sower (Matthew 13:3-9, 18-23). He described four types of soil, representing different responses to God’s Word. One particular soil stands out—the wayside soil, where the seed (God’s Word) was sown but immediately stolen by the enemy.
Matthew 13:19 (NKJV) says:
“When anyone hears the word of the kingdom, and does not understand it, then the wicked one comes and snatches away what was sown in his heart…”
This means that Satan attacks the understanding of believers because what we fail to understand, we cannot retain, and what we cannot retain, we cannot apply. However, the seed that fell on good ground represents those who hear, understand, and bear fruit. Understanding is the difference between losing God’s Word and producing lasting fruit.
Why the Enemy Fears a Believer Who Understands God’s Word
- Understanding leads to application: James 1:22 (NKJV) says, “But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.” What we understand, we can apply, and applied truth leads to spiritual victory.
- Understanding brings stability: Matthew 7:24-25 compares a wise man who built his house on the rock (understanding and applying God’s Word). Storms came, but his house stood firm.
- Understanding defeats deception: Hosea 4:6 says, “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.” Without understanding, believers are easily deceived by false doctrines and worldly influences.
How to Increase Understanding of God’s Word
- Ask the Holy Spirit for Revelation
- John 14:26 (NKJV): “But the Helper, the Holy Spirit…will teach you all things…”
- We must rely on the Holy Spirit, the ultimate teacher, to reveal the deeper meaning of Scripture.
- Meditate on the Word
- Joshua 1:8 (NKJV): “This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night…then you will have good success.”
- Meditation helps us internalise and comprehend God’s Word, making it a part of our thinking.
- Be Teachable and Humble
- Proverbs 4:7 (NKJV): “Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom. And in all your getting, get understanding.”
- A humble heart is willing to learn and grow in spiritual knowledge.
- Study the Word Diligently
- 2 Timothy 2:15 (NKJV): “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”
- Bible study should be intentional and consistent.
- Fellowship and Learn from Others
- Hebrews 10:24-25 (NKJV): “Let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together.”
- God places pastors, apostles, prophets, teachers and godly mentors in our lives to help us understand His Word better.
- Practice Obedience
- John 7:17 (NKJV): “If anyone wills to do His will, he shall know concerning the doctrine, whether it is from God…”
- Obedience to God is not merely about receiving material blessings. As we obey God Almighty and walk in His will, we not only receive His provisions but also gain deeper insight into His truth.
Conclusion
Hearing God’s Word is the first step, but understanding it is what allows faith to take root in our hearts. The devil fears a believer who understands the Word because understanding leads to action, transformation, and victory. We must be intentional in seeking revelation, meditating on Scripture, and allowing the Holy Spirit to teach us. As we grow in understanding, our lives will bear fruit, and we will stand firm in our faith.
Altar call: For anyone reading this article who is not saved and wants to be part of the family of God or you want to re-dedicate your life back to Jesus, please repeat this out loud. “Lord Jesus, I acknowledge that I have sinned against you. Lord Jesus forgive me of my sins. I repent of my sins. Lord Jesus come into my life and be my Lord now and forever in Jesus Name. Amen
Prayer: Holy Spirit, help me to grow deeper in the knowledge and understanding of God’s word and will, in Jesus Name
Feast of Light Word Ministry
Amazing truth. We receive grace for understanding of the word and putting it to practice in Jesus name.
Thx pst for this timely word. Receive more unction in Jesus name.
Amen in Jesus Name. Thanks Daddy Nzeribe. with love from James&Edore
This is such a powerful reminder of the importance of grace and understanding in our spiritual journey. I truly believe that putting the word into practice is where the real transformation happens. The mention of Jesus’ name adds a profound sense of purpose and connection. I wonder, how do you personally apply this understanding in your daily life? It’s inspiring to see such a heartfelt message shared with love and gratitude. Thanks for this timely word—it’s a great encouragement. Do you think this kind of grace is something we can actively seek, or does it come to us in unexpected ways?
By the way, we’ve integrated libersave into our regional voucher system. It’s amazing how it simplifies bringing different providers together on one platform.
Thanks for your kind words. In responce to your question; If one claims to understand God’s word but does not apply it or live by it, it can be likened to what Apsotle James in the bible says, I will show you my faith by more works. As faith without works (action/obediance) is dead. So if i claim to understand God’s word but i do not live by it or apply it, then my faith is without power. Really it is when we apply what we understand from God’s word that we access the abundant supernatural blessings and power that God has ordained for us. Therefore through the help of the Holy Spirit i strive to live by God’s word. I strive to apply God’s word to my life everyday. I hope this helps. God bless you richly, in Jesus Name. Amen