In what ways can we actively "listen" to Jesus in our spiritual practices? Scripture Focus “Then a cloud appeared and enveloped them, and a voice came from the cloud: ‘This is My beloved Son. Listen to Him!’” (Mark 9:7) The Call to Listen • God the Father issues a clear, authoritative command: “Listen to Him!” • Listening is not passive; it implies attention, trust, and compliance (James 1:22). • Jesus, as God’s final and complete revelation (Hebrews 1:1-2), deserves our undivided ear. Active Listening Defined • Hearing with the intent to understand, believe, and obey. • Positioning the mind, heart, and will to receive Jesus’ words as absolute truth (John 17:17). • Expecting the Spirit to illuminate and apply Scripture to daily life (John 14:26). Practices That Tune Our Ears to Jesus • Consistent, prayer-saturated Bible reading – Read sequentially to grasp context; linger over the Gospels where Jesus speaks directly. – Ask the Spirit to highlight commands, promises, and warnings (Psalm 119:18). • Slow, meditative reflection – Re-read a short passage, emphasizing each phrase. – Journal insights; note what reveals Christ’s character or instructions (Psalm 1:2-3). • Conversational prayer – Begin with praise, then read a verse aloud. – Pause, allowing time for conviction, encouragement, or direction (1 Samuel 3:10). • Silence and solitude – Set aside brief, phone-free intervals to be quiet before the Lord (Psalm 46:10). – In the stillness, rehearse a single statement of Jesus, letting it settle deeply. • Corporate worship and sound teaching – Gather faithfully with believers (Hebrews 10:24-25). – Measure every sermon or song by Scripture; receive Christ’s voice through His body (Ephesians 4:15-16). • Obedient response – Act promptly on what He reveals, even in small matters (Luke 6:46-48). – Obedience sharpens spiritual hearing; disobedience dulls it (Mark 4:24-25). Common Obstacles and How to Overcome Them • Noise and busyness → Schedule intentional quiet spaces; guard them zealously. • Doubt that Jesus still speaks → Stand on His promise: “My sheep listen to My voice; I know them, and they follow Me” (John 10:27). • Sin or unforgiveness → Confess quickly (1 John 1:9); a clear conscience heightens sensitivity. • Selective hearing → Submit to the whole counsel of God, not just comforting portions. Encouraging Promises for Listeners • Guidance: “In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight” (Proverbs 3:6). • Friendship: “You are My friends if you do what I command you” (John 15:14). • Spiritual fruitfulness: “If you remain in Me and My words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you” (John 15:7). Takeaway Intentional, Scripture-anchored practices place us where we can truly hear the Savior. When we quiet competing voices, open His Word, and obey promptly, we fulfill the Father’s directive on the mountaintop: “Listen to Him!” |
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