What does "incline your ear" suggest about our attitude towards Scripture? Opening the Text “Incline your ear and hear the words of the wise, and apply your heart to my knowledge.” (Proverbs 22:17) What the Phrase Pictures • “Incline” is an action verb. It pictures someone physically leaning in, tilting the head, moving closer so nothing is missed. • “Your ear” pinpoints the faculty of hearing—receiving a message rather than speaking one. • Together, the words call for deliberate, focused, eager listening. Attitude Scripture Expects • Active Attention – We choose to hush competing noises and tune in (Hebrews 2:1). – Scripture is never background music; it demands the foreground. • Humble Receptivity – Leaning in admits we need instruction (James 1:21). – The posture confesses, “These words outrank my opinions.” • Persistent Proximity – The verb implies staying close long enough to understand (Psalm 1:2). – Glancing reads won’t do; lingering is assumed. • Obedient Readiness – Hearing in Hebrew thought carries doing (Deuteronomy 5:1). – “Apply your heart” in the verse links listening with wholehearted practice. Practical Outworkings 1. Set apart undistracted time—turn devices face-down, clear the desk. 2. Read aloud or whisper the passage; give your ear something to incline toward. 3. Jot what you will obey today; expectancy keeps the heart leaning forward. 4. Revisit the text during the day; inclining is ongoing, not one-and-done. Reinforcing Passages • Isaiah 55:3 – “Incline your ear and come to Me; listen, that your soul may live.” • Psalm 78:1 – “O my people, hear my teaching; incline your ears to the words of my mouth.” • Proverbs 4:20 – “My son, pay attention to my words; incline your ear to my sayings.” Each instance underscores the same stance: eager, submissive, enduring attention. Conclusion “Incline your ear” invites us to lean toward Scripture with intentional, humble, obedient hearts—believing every word is God’s true and essential speech for life and godliness. |
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