Have you ever been in a situation when people simply didn’t listen to you, even though you knew exactly what you were talking about? The solution to the problem seemed obvious to you, but others were so busy voicing their opinions that you couldn’t get a word in edgewise. Frustrating, wasn’t it? Now imagine what it must be like to be God in heaven, with the most profound and complete knowledge about every topic in the universe. He has the wisdom that we need to solve all of our problems- even the deepest ones. Unfortunately, whenever we bow our heads in prayer to communicate with Him, we do all the talking.
Be honest now, isn’t that what you do? Have you been one sided in your conversations with God, telling Him your needs instead of listening to His instruction? Here’s the principle for today:
“Listening to God is essential to walking with God.”
You see, you can’t have a relationship with someone that you don’t listen to. If you really want God to lead you and transform your life, then you need to hear what He’s saying. It’s just that simple.
Spend some time today reading Psalm 81. As you do ask yourself this question: “Why was it important for the Israelites to recall all the good things that God had done for them on the New Moon, Sabbath, and other feast days?”
The New Moon meant the beginning of the month, in which the Israelites would give offerings to God. It was a celebration of how He had worked among them.
But why do you think Israel refused to listen to God? Do you fail to listen to Him for similar reasons?
God wants the very best for those who believe in Him, and He knows exactly how to provide it. Unfortunately, the people of Israel did not trust God enough to embrace what He was teaching them, and time after time they experienced the terrible consequences of their disobedience. They refused to listen to God, thinking that by doing so they were escaping His control. However, what they were really doing was rejecting His protection and love. Please don’t make the same mistake! God’s commands are for your protection and benefit. As Proverbs 1:7, 32 says, “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge…
Whoever listens to me will dwell safely, and will be secure, without fear of evil.”
So I ask you, “Do you do all the taking in your relationship with God?” True conversation involves both talking and listening.
Do you realize the amazing privilege that you have in being able to go to God in prayer? You have the freedom to approach the God of all creation at any moment to ask for His wisdom, comfort, and power. Hebrews 4:15-16 tells us: “We do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.”
Jesus understands everything that you’re going through and all that you feel, and His desire is to guide you through your troubles in a way that glorifies God and makes you into an effective, mature believer. However, He cannot help you if you will not walk with Him, and you cannot walk with Him if you won’t allow Him to lead you. And unfortunately, He cannot lead you if you refuse to listen to Him. But why should you listen to God, you might ask? Because He always knows what is best for you!
So, how will you live out the principle for today? Are you willing to be quiet before God and hear what He has to say to you? Create an action plan of how you will intentionally listen to God and commit yourself to obeying Him, no matter what He tells you to do.
Spend time today in prayer, asking God to draw you into intimate communion with Himself and to transform your life, so that you can effect the world around you for the sake of the gospel.
Remember these two truths:
- God is not silent (Hebrews 1:1-3), and
- God always speaks for your benefit (Isaiah 51:1-16).