“Whoever has ears, let them hear.” Matthew 11:15
There are so many ways to communicate, yet, there are also many ways communication can go wrong. I am reminded of that every time my husband and I disagree on something. Sometimes, we end up realizing we were both saying the same thing — only in two very different ways. It is not always easy to communicate, but it is well worth the effort. The reward? Relationships.
In our text, Jesus is exhorting people to pay attention to what He is saying. Often, that’s just the problem in our communication with God, isn’t it? We forget God is looking for a loving relationship, and so instead we use Him like an ATM. Prayers in (card + pin) results out (dollar bills from our bank account.)
We read in God’s Word that He wants us to talk to Him, but also that He speaks. His talking to us can take many forms. It can be through a friend’s or even a stranger’s words. It can also be through revelations, thoughts, dreams, etc. The surest way is through His Word, the Bible.
When we are intentional about listening to God and tuning out the outside noise, we are setting ourselves on a path of delicate intimacy with the Creator of all things. This is such a beautiful honor! If we say we love God more than anything else, it means we won’t mind taking a minute to sit and listen.
Heavenly Father, help me to listen. You have so much to say to me, and I want to hear from you. Give me a childlike faith and discernment to know just when you are talking in my life. I also want to obey. I love you, Lord. Amen.
Take time to listen to God today, even if just a few minutes. Find a quiet space, take a deep breath, and turn off your thoughts and outside stimuli. Pick up a Bible and take your time to read a chapter, making every effort to understand what God has to tell you through His Word.
By Caroline Bellemare
Used by Permission
FURTHER READING
• The Walk of Obedience – by Mary Pinckney
• Blessed Obedience – by Idelette McVicker
• God Requires Risky Obedience – by Jon Walker