Blessed is the man you discipline, O Lord; the man you teach from your law. (Ps. 94:12)
Expanded Passage: Psalm 94
An apprentice spends years studying under the master to become a journeyman. A journeyman spends years more to become a master. The master, in turn, teaches an apprentice. Some lessons are difficult to learn, to understand, or to see the significance of. A master will see the potential of the apprentice and encourage them on until they understand the discipline and grow in their practice to reach their potential.
The most difficult challenges often provide the most rewarding lessons. The tiniest detail can make the difference between the science of a trade and the art of it. As iron sharpens iron, challenges will sharpen the craftsman to perfection.
For apprentices in the kingdom of God, challenges arise in similar fashion. The King sees potential in each of his subjects, encouraging them on to fullness of faith in him. He wants us to grow in our Christian craft, away from our wickedness and into his righteousness.
Some of the laws of the Old Testament may seem odd, out of date, no longer applicable, or insignificant, but each one was given for a reason. Sin is still sin; people are still people; and God is still God. For reasons that may be beyond our understanding, everything God said, says, or will say is still important for us to learn.
Listen to the Master to become an artist.
Randall A. Forbes was director of plant operations at Kingswood University (Canada). He is an artist, retired minister, follower of Christ, and lover of life.
© 2025 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
