Life Stories

“Jesus always used stories and illustrations like these when speaking to the crowds. In fact, he never spoke to them without using such parables.”—Matthew 13:34 NLT

The Bible says Jesus didn’t speak to the crowds without using parables. He speaks to us today in similar ways. What are parables in our lives?

In many ways, these are our experiences, the things we see, feel, think about, and hear. They are what we share with others, and what others share with us. They are books we read and films we see. They are paintings, photographs, memories, and images.

If we live only on the surface and are not sensitive to the Spirit of God, these may seem to have little significance. But God wants us to be sensitive to His Spirit and recognize that He wants to speak to us, just as Jesus spoke to people through parables.

God desires to use our experiences to teach us and give us discernment and understanding. He wants to reveal deep things to us, things that are not apparent to those who live merely on the surface of life.

Jesus explained this in private. For us, this can mean that He will speak to us when we spend time alone with Him in prayer and Bible reading.

We can be sure that God wants to lead us into deeper truths, reveal more of Himself to us, and give us greater understanding. Seek to be more sensitive to God’s leading. Listen to His voice. Learn to recognize the lessons and guidance He gives you.

Reflection Question: How has God spoken to you recently?