Have you ever known someone who was really wise and learned but at the same time kind of dumb? If you have spent a significant amount of time at a university or place of research, most likely you have encountered this kind of person — one with a big ego who is wrapped up in their IQ, their projects, their published studies, and their clout. Because of all that they have learned on a worldly scale, they are saturated, and in their eyes, they don’t see the need to receive advice from anyone else. As the old Zen proverb goes, their cup is so full that they have no room for tea; in other words, by their pride, they have surrendered their capacity to inherit true wisdom.

Like the person described above, this may have been the mentality of the those Jesus was dealing with as He uttered the words of Matthew 11 (above). Having recently rebuked unrepentant towns that had repeatedly rejected His miracles, He was frustrated and upset at the people’s unwillingness to see the powerful new thing He was doing in their midst. Because they were set in their ways and certain that they had all that they needed, they gave up their ability to perceive something fresh. I know I’ve had moments when I’ve been this person: when the Lord was clearly doing something in my church or in someone’s heart, but because of my own religiosity and ego, I was blind to it.

Friend, I encourage you to pray daily for humility of mind and for eyes that see through the lens of the Kingdom of God! Develop a childlike faith, trust in the power and goodness of Jesus, and reject the mistaken belief that you already know it all. Allow the Lord to soften your heart and seek to maintain a posture of confident expectation. As you do, you will see things that will blow your mind and you will continue to fall in love with your Savior! Isn’t that wonderful news?