How can you actively listen for God's "new things" in daily prayer? The Promise of “New Things” — Isaiah 43:19 “Behold, I am about to do something new; even now it is coming. Do you not perceive it? Indeed, I will make a way in the wilderness and streams in the desert.” What “New Things” Look Like • Fresh guidance for today’s decisions • Unexpected doors of service and ministry • Renewed joy in worship and Scripture • Deeper victory over persistent sin • Creative solutions to family or workplace challenges Why We Must Listen Actively • God’s voice still speaks through His written Word (2 Timothy 3:16–17) • The Spirit illuminates and applies that Word (John 16:13) • Obedient hearing positions us to receive promised “streams in the desert” Practical Steps to Listen in Daily Prayer 1. Unhurried Stillness – Begin by quieting the mind (Psalm 46:10). – Lay aside phones and screens; give God undivided attention. 2. Scripture-First Approach – Read a short passage aloud. – Ask: “Lord, what ‘new thing’ are You highlighting today?” – Expect the Spirit to press a phrase or command on your heart (Hebrews 4:12). 3. Respond, Don’t React – Write the impressed thought in a journal. – Formulate one sentence of obedience: “Today I will…” – Immediate surrender keeps the heart tender (James 1:22). 4. Wait with Listening Ears – Pause after speaking; resist rushing to the next task. – Silence invites confirmation or redirection (1 Kings 19:12). 5. Test Every Impression – Compare with clear Scripture; God never contradicts Himself (Galatians 1:8). – Seek godly counsel if uncertain (Proverbs 15:22). 6. Walk It Out the Same Day – Act on the light given before asking for more (John 13:17). – Record outcomes; watch for “streams” where wilderness once reigned. Daily Prayer Pattern Example • Praise: Thank God for past “new things.” • Read: Isaiah 43:18–21 aloud. • Listen: Two minutes of quiet waiting. • Note: Write any Scripture, idea, or conviction that surfaces. • Obey: Plan one concrete action. • Close: Declare trust that He will finish what He starts (Philippians 1:6). Encouragement for the Journey • God delights to reveal today’s steps, not the whole map (Psalm 119:105). • Faithfulness in small nudges leads to greater assignments (Luke 16:10). • Yesterday’s manna won’t sustain tomorrow; expect fresh provision daily (Exodus 16:4). Key Verses to Keep Handy • Isaiah 42:9 — “Behold, the former things have come to pass, and now I declare new things.” • Lamentations 3:22–23 — “His mercies are new every morning.” • Ephesians 3:20 — “Able to do infinitely more than all we ask or imagine.” Stay alert, notebook open, heart yielded. His “new things” are already on the way. |
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