February 16

Show me Your ways, O LORD; teach me Your paths. — Ps 25:4 BSB

To lie at the footstool of mercy with a broken heart and contrite spirit, pleading for God to teach us, is a truly blessed place to be. It shows the evidence of a childlike spirit, full of simplicity, reality, and genuineness, bearing the unmistakable marks of true discipleship. When we see someone coming out of self, renouncing their own wisdom, strength, and righteousness, and laying aside all reliance on external religion, showing true humility before God, it is clearly beyond human nature. Only the power of God can bring a soul so fully out of the shell of self-righteousness, exposing its spiritual nakedness before Him.

There is something sweet about seeing a docile, teachable disposition. On the other hand, few things are as offensive as the pride of ignorance—when people who know nothing act as though they know everything and are too proud to be taught.

The only path to knowledge is through a meek, teachable spirit, a willingness to learn that comes from a sense of our own ignorance. This is something we often see in children. There is no more pleasant sight for a parent or teacher than a child eager to learn, happy to receive instruction. If anything can open the mouth to teach, it is finding such a willing learner.

In spiritual matters, it is the same. When there is a humble, quiet, teachable spirit, it seems to draw forth from the Lord’s heart and mouth the secrets of His heavenly wisdom, which He hides from others. As Jesus said, “I thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and prudent, and have revealed them to babes.” These babes are the teachable and childlike, to whom God reveals the treasures of His wisdom.