Matthew 13:51-58 ; Psalm 107:23-32

Matthew 13:51-58
Jesus asked the disciples whether or not they understood the parables. and they answered, "Yes." At this, Jesus gave one more short parable to remind them that understanding is not enough. Understanding must lead to action, obedience, and responsibility. The disciples (and this applies to us as well) were not merely "storerooms" for God's truth (the treasure). They were to study and remember the old teachings as well as embracing the new, and then they were to bring the truth out and share it with others. (vv. 51-52)

When Jesus had finished the parables, He moved on to His hometown where He taught in the synagogue, and the people were amazed! Apparently, they were amazed by His words (wisdom, v. 54) and His works (miraculous powers, v. 54). The people there knew Joseph, Mary, and His brothers and sisters! How could this be? And they were offended. Actually, they knew Him as a human, but they did not trust in Him as Savior. They did not have the spiritual discernment that the Holy Spirit gives when we trust Him by faith. And so His ministry was limited in that place.

Psalm 107:23-32
The next group of troubled people that God will rescue are the storm-tossed. These are specifically merchants who find themselves in a fearful storm at sea. I've never experienced an actual physical storm at sea, but I can imagine that it's terrifying. When the surf along the shore is rough, it gives us a glimpse of the mighty power of the ocean! The sailors cry out to God in their trouble, and He "stilled the storm to a whisper; the waves of the sea were hushed." v. 29

Now let's make application here. We all face "storms" of various kinds. We may find them in our homes, our work, our finances, our health, and um...even our church! Usually, we spend our energy trying to calm the storm or fix the damage when we should be like these sailors and cry out to the Lord in our trouble! Then, like them, we can be glad when it grows calm, and God can guide us to our desired haven." v. 30.

For our meditation:  "Let them give thanks to the Lord for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for men. Let them exalt him in the assembly of the people and praise him in the council of the elders." Psalm 107:30-32

Have you noticed how many times in this psalm these words have been repeated? Apparently, they are important! "Let them give thanks to the Lord for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for men."