Listening

‘Listen, my sons, to a father’s instruction; pay attention and gain understanding’ (Proverbs 4:1).

In this era of globalization, where multiple technological gadgets and communicative devices have become part of our daily lives, the world has become so noisy that many Christians do not hear from God. So instead of being led by God, they are just following formulas which are sometimes not applicable to their particular situation. With each new battle in life, you have to get fresh instructions. '...David inquired of the Lord, saying, "Shall I go up against the Philistines?”...the Lord said..."Go up, for I will...deliver the Philistines into your hand"' (2 Samuel 5:19 NKJV). Without the leading of God, you are robbed of your sonship as a Christian; your ability to walk in dominion, taking charge of all lives situations.

Today, God still speaks to men, remember Jesus said that His sheep know His voice (John 10:27). The good news is, regardless of our noisy world, it is still possible to hear from God if you seek Him, pay attention and listen to His voice. Someone explained that, ‘it is like having an intimate conversation with a close friend in a noisy, crowded place. There may be other voices around you, but you don't hear them because you're so focused on what your friend is saying. That's how it is with God's voice. Whether He speaks to you through the Scriptures, through a friend, or through your life's circumstances, He's always communicating with the heart that seeks Him (Christian Devotionals.com). His promise to you is, 'your ears will hear a voice...saying, "This is the way; walk in it ‘(Isaiah 30:21).

In any communication, listening is as important as talking. The sad reality is that, for some Christians, communication with God, their heavenly father has become one sided. They only talk to God but do not wait to listen to His voice. In their prayer time, they don’t seek to hear His voice. Consequently, they keep going to God with the same issues which He has already instructed them about, in a previous prayer time or through His word or other circumstances.

One word from God, just one, can change your entire outlook in life and transform your entire life. You need to have a time everyday where your cell phone, TV, computer etc is off, and God has your full attention. If you are so busy that you cannot find time to communicate with God, watch out, you have taken on more responsibilities than, God gave you. Jesus had the habit of getting away from all the distractions and going to a secluded place to pray (Mark 1:35, Luke 4:42 ). So today, take time to seek God, pay attention and listen to His voice.