Are You Seeking Hidden Treasures?

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“I rejoice in your word like one who discovers a great treasure.” Psalm 119:162 (NLT).

Did you and your friends ever hunt for buried treasure as kids? Swords, pirate gear – complete with eye patch – and a treasure map! Imaginations were larger than life and elaborate tales were role played in backyards, school yards and damp basements. The proverbial X was to mark THE spot, but thankfully most searches ended before any of the neighbor’s yards were dug up and left with gaping holes. What’s strange is that I have no recollection of ever discovering anything resembling a hidden treasure. Did you?

While I have no memory of how those explorations ended, I do now love to find hidden treasure in God’s Word. One such treasure was uncovered recently while I was doing a study of the Book of Nehemiah. As I began, I assumed that I would just be revisiting the rebuilding of the wall surrounding Jerusalem. However, I soon discovered many fun facts about that massive renovation project. It is a great testimony of teamwork and how amazing results can be accomplished when all involved are united in purpose.

The hidden treasure was found in chapter 8. The wall is complete, and the Israelites have gathered to hear Ezra, the priest, read from God’s Word. Intriguing is the description of all who were present and listening. “The men and women and all the children old enough to understand…. From early morning until noon [Ezra] read aloud to everyone who could understand. All the people listened closely to the Book of the Law.” (v. 2-3 NLT) What an interesting phrase, all the children who were old enough to understand. Up until that moment in time, I had never pictured children at any sort of synagogue, tabernacle or temple worship in Biblical days. (There apparently was no children's church or nursery provided, but the children who were old enough to understand were listening!)

But it doesn't stop there. Not only did those present hear the Word of God, but the elders went among the people and taught them its meaning. Verses 7-8 share that “The Levites…instructed the people in the Law…and clearly explained the meaning of what was being read, helping the people understand each passage.” Talk about an amazing day of worship!

Apparently, it was quite the humbling experience because Nehemiah encourages the people in their moments of conviction by saying, “Don’t be dejected and sad, for the joy of the Lord is your strength!” And the people responded to his encouragement and had a “festive meal…to celebrate with great joy because they had heard God’s words and understood them.” (v. 10b & 12 NLT) Now, I know that many churches are known for their delicious fellowship meals and fundraising dinners, but I’ve never participated in a meal to simply celebrate the fact that we have God’s Word at our finger tips each and every day. And we, as believers, have been given the Holy Spirit to help us understand God’s truth every time we open His Word.

What a gift. What a treasure! And, what a responsibility!

In the New Testament, we find Paul challenging Timothy to make sure that he “correctly teaches the message of God's truth” (2 Timothy 2:15 GNT), and we have that same challenge today. We have access to the Word of God. We have those who teach us the meaning of God’s words through our pastors, teachers and peers. And, we have the joy – and responsibility - to help others understand God’s truth as well.

As leaders, and believers, we have a responsibility to dig deeper into our Bibles for hidden treasure. We must take time to ask God to bless us with a deeper understanding of His Word. And, we would be wise to pray for those who speak the Word of God into our lives and into the lives of our children and church family. God’s hidden treasures are in plain view, but sometimes we must take time to ponder passages and seek to know our God and understand His Word.

Heavenly Father,
May we each be hungry for Your truth, O Lord. May we not be deceived by those who have twisted Your words – even in a positive manner - but without a clear understanding. May we each hunger and thirst for Your Word, and Your truth alone. And, may we be cautious and careful to only speak Your truth to others for Your glory and Your honor. Grant us willing hearts and listening ears. Amen!

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