Mark 4:34

New International Version (NIV) 

He did not say anything to them without using a parable. But when he was alone with his own disciples, he explained everything.

For Meditation

1. Does a father disclose a family secret to a favorite child in public? Is it common practice for a couple to have very intimate discussions outside the bedroom?
2. Of course, friends meet in public places to converse and talk over many issues; but do you see how two of them often withdraw to have a heart-to-heart conversation?
3. Doesn’t our Father in heaven seek such private space and moments with us? Do you see why Jesus spoke in parables to the public, but explained everything to His disciples when He was alone with them in private (Mk. 4:34)?
4. Don’t you have a lot to learn from Him? Haven’t you been seeking His face on issues like direction, wisdom, knowledge, and understanding? Are they not all in His treasury? Has He not invited you to come boldly to His throne of grace, where mercy and grace waits to offer their help to you (Heb. 4:16)? How can He refuse to receive you, if you step aside from your busyness to be alone with Him?
5. Do you see the opportunities personal devotions, Bible studies, and prayer times open to the believer in Jesus? Do you realize the blessings they offer for Jesus to reveal the secrets of His heart to you? So, why trade such precious times for anything else in this world?

I pray the Lord to open His heart to you when you give Him part of your precious time today.

So: May your heart rejoice in His presence; and may “He put a new song in [your] mouth, a hymn of praise to our God” (Ps. 40:3).

Shalom