Why We Need an Understanding Heart

"Give therefore thy servant an understanding heart to judge thy people, that I may discern between good and bad: for who is able to judge this thy so great a people?" - I Kings 3:9

I. Understanding Inspires Loyalty
"But the Lord is faithful, who shall establish you, and keep you from evil" (II Thessalonians 3:3).
The Lord is faithful and loyal. He is a friend, helper, and Savior. He never fails nor forsakes any who come to Him. He understands. An understanding heart will help us to also be loyal and trustworthy. We will not be ashamed of Christ nor betray the confidence of others. Those who are faithful unto death will receive a crown of life in the hereafter. (Revelation 2:10).

II. Understanding Involves Listening
"The righteous cry, and the Lord heareth, and delivereth them out of all their trouble" (Psalm 34:17).
The understanding Christ always listens to those who call on Him. He never turns a deaf ear to any problem or need (Psalm 91:15). We must listen to Him as He speaks to us through prayer and His Word. We must listen to others too! In our world of suffering, sorrow, and separation -- listening can make the difference between life and death. An understanding heart lends a listening ear.

III. Understanding Invests Labor
"...the poor have the gospel preached to them" (I Peter 4:16).
Jesus Christ listens to our troubles, but He also lifts our burdens and delivers us out of our troubles. An understanding heart must lend a helping hand as well as a listening ear. We must put feet to our prayers and works to our faith. We must help the poor and disabled; visit and pray for the sick; assist in the work of the church; and seek to give the gospel to those who are lost.

III. Understanding Increases Love
"...the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me" (Galatians 2:20).
The understanding Jesus is filled with compassion and love. He loved me so much that He died on the cross to pay the penalty for our sins. Loyalty, listening, and labor are necessary to an understanding heart, but without love -- they fall short of their potential. An understanding heart increases love. God's love enables us to feel compassion and empathize with others in their deepest needs. Love will bring final victory with its eternal rewards at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ (I Thessalonians 3:12-13).