Learning to Listen to God

Learning to Listen to God
Psalm 81:8-16

God clearly calls us to listen to Him, but like the nation of Israel, we
sometimes ignore His voice and miss His blessings. Learning to listen to the
Lord is far more important than learning to talk to Him. Generally, we find it
much easier to rattle off a prayer than to sit quietly with our Bibles open in
our laps, waiting to hear what He has to say.

Since two-way conversation is essential in developing a relationship, being able
to hear the Lord's voice is a vital part of the Christian life. Sometimes we
have the notion that after being saved, we just automatically know Him. But that
is not true in any kind of relationship. Just as we grow to know another person
through communication, so we become more intimately acquainted with the Lord
through listening and talking to Him.

Not only do we need ears to hear His voice; we also must have discernment to
accurately understand what He is saying.He's not the only one who wants our
attention. People around us readily offer us advice, Satan whispers his lies in
our minds, and the world shouts loudly from almost every electronic device and
form of media. Grounding in the Scriptures sharpens our discernment and protects
us from deception.

Have you ever considered that neglect of God's Word is a rejection of Him? He
continually calls out, "Oh that My people would listen to Me" (Psalm 81:13). He is
ready and willing to speak to those who will humble themselves, take the time to
listen, and respond obediently to whatever He says.

Phillippians 4:13 "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me." KJV

Theresa Pavone