Measured by What We Hear
“And he said unto them, Take heed what ye hear: with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you: and unto you that hear shall more be given. For he that hath, to him shall be given: and he that hath not, from him shall be taken even that which he hath.” - Mark 4:24–25 (KJV)
In these searching words, Jesus shifts the focus from speaking to hearing. The kingdom of God advances not merely through proclamation, but through reception. “Take heed what ye hear.” The warning implies responsibility. Hearing is a moral act. What we allow into the heart shapes who we become.
The measure we use, our attentiveness, humility, and readiness to obey becomes the measure by which we receive. If we approach God’s Word casually, skeptically, or selectively, our understanding remains shallow. But when we listen with reverence and willingness, light increases. The Word yields more truth to those who cherish and practice it.
“Unto you that hear shall more be given.” Spiritual growth is cumulative. Obedience opens the door to deeper insight. The one who treasures the truth finds that truth expanding within him. God does not withhold wisdom from the responsive heart; He multiplies it.
Yet the warning is equally sobering. “He that hath not, from him shall be taken even that which he hath.” Neglected truth dims. Ignored conviction hardens the heart. Exposure without response leads not to neutrality, but to loss. Light resisted becomes light diminished.
These verses reveal a spiritual principle: revelation requires responsibility. Christ calls us to listen carefully, respond faithfully, and guard what we have received. Hearing rightly is the pathway to growth; indifference leads to decline.
Mark 4:24–25 invites examination. How do we measure the Word? With eagerness or distraction? With submission or self-protection? The measure we bring determines the increase we receive.
The heart that listens carefully receives abundantly.
Prayer:
Lord, give me a listening heart. Guard me from careless hearing. Help me treasure Your Word, respond in obedience, and grow in the light You give. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
