He Will Teach His Ways
God desires to teach us His ways and bring us spiritual growth, but we must be willing to listen to Him and put into practice what we already know.
Mary Wilder Tileston emphasizes the importance of seeking God's teaching and guidance in order to walk in His ways and paths, acknowledging our need to learn from Him and be directed by His wisdom. She highlights the significance of silent listening to God rather than focusing on ourselves, encouraging actions over mere words and appearances. Tileston stresses the value of putting into practice the knowledge we already possess, rather than constantly seeking new knowledge. She underscores the essence of staying focused on God, loving and obeying Him in our hearts, as a greater pursuit than eloquent speech or vast knowledge.
Text
That which I see not teach Thou me: if I have done iniquity, I will do it no more.
JOB 34:32
He will teach us of His ways, and we will walk in His paths.
ISAIAH 2:3
YES, take my heart, and in it rule;
Direct it as it pleaseth Thee;
I will be silent in Thy school,
And learn whate'er Thou teachest me.
GERHARD TERSTEFGEN
PEOPLE cannot become perfect by dint of hearing or reading about perfection. The chief thing is not to listen to yourself, but silently to listen to God. Talk little and do much, without caring to be seen. God will teach you more than all the most experienced persons or the most spiritual books can do. You already know a great deal more than you practise. You do not need the acquirement of fresh knowledge half so much as to put in practice that which you already possess.
FRANCOIS DE LA MOTHE FÉNELON
To speak with the tongues of men or angels on religious matters, is a much less thing than to know how to stay the mind upon God, and abide with Him in the closet of our hearts, observing, loving, adoring, and obeying His holy power within us.
WILLIAM LAW
Sermon Outline
- God's Desire to Teach Us
- The Importance of Listening to God
- The Benefits of Abiding with God
- Staying the mind on God brings spiritual growth
- Abiding with God leads to obedience and love
Key Quotes
“He will teach us of His ways, and we will walk in His paths.” — Mary Wilder Tileston
“You already know a great deal more than you practise.” — Mary Wilder Tileston
“To speak with the tongues of men or angels on religious matters, is a much less thing than to know how to stay the mind upon God, and abide with Him in the closet of our hearts, observing, loving, adoring, and obeying His holy power within us.” — Mary Wilder Tileston
Application Points
- Make a conscious effort to listen to God and put into practice what you already know.
- Prioritize abiding with God in the closet of your heart, observing, loving, adoring, and obeying His holy power within you.
- Recognize that spiritual growth comes from staying the mind on God and not just from gaining knowledge.