From a prophetic point of view, this word speaks of Christ. When He lived on earth, He did not need to be taught, but heard “as those who are taught.” At the same time, this is a very practical word for His disciples today, for us; for “those who are taught” are disciples. Disciples learn from their master by following him, by imitating him.

For what purpose did Christ as Man on earth need a “tongue of those who are taught”? To preach and proclaim the kingdom of God, of course. But here a very different ministry is mentioned: “that I may know how to sustain with a word him who is weary.” This is what our Lord often did for His own: like the sinful woman who covered His feet with tears in the house of that arrogant Simon; His own mother whom He entrusted to John’s care while still on the cross; Mary Magdalene on the morning of His resurrection; the two disciples who were on the way to Emmaus in a depressed mood that same day. They were all encouraged by Him.

It does not take many words to encourage people. Too many words can even be a hindrance, can intimidate, discourage, depress. When our Lord spoke to individuals, He often used surprisingly few words. But these words met exactly the need of the other. They were truly uplifting. After an encounter with Jesus, no one went on as he or she was before.

When we are downcast ourselves, let us be lifted up by our Lord; let our eyes be directed upward again. And let us also learn this from Him: if we meet a “weary one” today, let us lift him up by a word.