Listening to God, Pt. 1

Some are better listeners than others. To listen to others, we have to pay attention to what they are saying.

Listening to God, Pt. 1

"Now the LORD came and stood and called as at other times, 'Samuel! Samuel!' And Samuel answered, 'Speak, for Your servant hears.'"

(1 Samuel 3:10)

This week, we will explore Dr. Charles Stanley's 13th Life Principle: "Listening to God—Walking with God". This message has blessed and challenged me in my walk with the Lord. My hope is that you too will be encouraged and stretched in your walk with Christ.

Some are better listeners than others. To listen to others, we have to pay attention to what they are saying. There is a difference between just hearing someone and really listening to him or her. I have been guilty of nodding my head in agreement but not really listening to what the other person is saying. My mind wanders away from the conversation, and the proof of me not listening is I ask the person talking to repeat what they just said!

What about listening to God when He speaks? God speaks to us in many ways. Of course, His primary way of speaking to His children is through His Holy Word, the Bible. The Holy Spirit who moved upon the authors to write is the same Holy Spirit who illuminates our hearts and minds so we can discern what He is saying to us today.

God desires to have a personal relationship with each person He has created. He made us so we would glorify Him and enjoy His presence in our lives. God is love. He loves us and wants to be involved in our daily lives. The Bible says it is not God's will that any of us perish (2 Peter 3:9). But knowing God in salvation is the beginning, not the "be-all and end-all", in our walk with Jesus. In order to walk with the Lord and live out the blessed life He has for each of us, it is imperative that we listen to God when He speaks to us and obey His instructions.

Chris McClarney's song, "I'm Listening", addresses the matter of God speaking and us listening:

I don't wanna miss one word You speak
'Cause everything You say is life to me
I don't wanna miss one word You speak
Quiet my heart, I'm listening.

I encourage you to take a couple of minutes and listen to this song in its entirety. The lyrics are powerful and instructive, and McClarney can sing!

How well are you listening to God and others? In order to have a good relationship with anyone, we have to listen well. James 1:19 says, "So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath." How well are you listening to God? He wants you to slow down, open your Bible and your heart, and allow Him to speak to you. Also, I encourage you throughout this day, be sensitive to the Spirit and how He impresses you and speaks to your heart. He will guide you out of trouble and into peace and opportunities. Take a few moments before you rush out the door or start another project, simply be still and know that He is God (Psalm 46:10), and listen carefully to what the Lord says to you.

Partner with us in spreading the Gospel!

Will you help fuel our efforts to spread the Gospel
and equip and empower other Christians to do the same?

Count me in! ▶

Podcast of the Week

Life Principles: #12: The Key to Continued Peace

Pastor Danny continues his series exploring his favorites of Dr. Charles Stanley's Life Principles. Today he dives into Principle #12: The Key to Continued Peace.

Listen on your preferred platform: