|
12. Apply thine heart unto instruction, and thine ears to the words of knowledge.
The frequent repetition of these counsels,† implies an humbling truth, familiar to every day's experience — man's natural revulsion from Divine instruction, and his inattention to the words of knowledge. It is well to have these injunctions renewed from time to time. We all need “precept upon precept, line upon line” (Isaiah 28:13); and that to the very end of our course. The best taught and most advanced Christian will be most earnest in seeking more instruction, and will most gladly sit at the feet of the Lord's ministers, to hear the words of knowledge. Here lies the value of the Bible, as the one source of instruction, and the alone treasure-house of the words of knowledge. The simple reference to this standard is the keeping of the soul from Romish errors, whether on Romish or Protestant ground.
Observe the connection between the application of the heart and of the ears. (Chapter 2:2.) The heart open to sound advice or moral precept, is yet shut to Christ and his doctrine. It is closed up in unbelief, prejudice, indifference, and the love of pleasure. A listless heart therefore produces a careless ear. But when the heart is graciously opened, softened, and enlightened, the attention of the ear is instantly fixed.† This indeed is the Lord's Sovereign creation work;† yet wrought by a God of order in the use of his own means. Awakened desire brings to prayer.† Prayer brings the blessing.† And precious then is every word of knowledge, more “than thousands of gold and silver”!†
|