How can we "listen to what God the LORD will say" daily? Opening the Verse Psalm 85:8 – “I will listen to what God the LORD will say; for He will surely speak peace to His people and His saints—do not let them return to folly.” The psalmist’s resolve gives us a simple daily aim: set our ears—and our hearts—on “what God the LORD will say.” Preparing the Heart to Hear • Clear distractions first thing: lay aside the phone, turn off background noise, and ask the Lord to focus your thoughts (Psalm 46:10). • Approach with confidence that He speaks through His Word—He has promised this (2 Timothy 3:16–17). • Expect peace, correction, and direction, just as the verse promises. God’s voice never conflicts with Scripture (John 10:27). Rooting Yourself in Scripture • Read a set portion daily—whole books, not random verses. This keeps God’s voice in context (Nehemiah 8:8). • Read aloud. Hearing the passage engages the mind and heart (Romans 10:17). • Underline verbs connected to God’s speaking—“said,” “commanded,” “promised.” Notice how He communicates. Listening While You Read 1. Observe: What does the text plainly say? (Literal accuracy gives firm footing.) 2. Interpret: What did it mean to the original audience? (Luke 24:27). 3. Apply: How does this truth direct my attitudes and choices today? (James 1:22). Inviting the Spirit’s Illumination • Rely on the Spirit, who “will guide you into all truth” (John 16:13). • Hold an open Bible and an open notebook. Jot immediate insights, convictions, promises, or commands. Practicing Continual Awareness • Memorize a key phrase from the morning’s passage; repeat it throughout the day (Deuteronomy 6:6–7). • Link ordinary moments—commuting, walking, waiting—to silent reflection on that phrase (Psalm 1:2). Confirming What You Hear • Test impressions by Scripture; God never contradicts His written Word (Galatians 1:8). • Seek wise counsel when unsure (Proverbs 11:14). • Look for His peace as confirmation (Colossians 3:15). A Daily Pattern for Listening Morning • 15–20 minutes reading sequentially through a Bible book • 2–3 minutes summarizing: “Today God said…” Midday • Recite the memorized verse; thank Him for any fresh insight Evening • Review the day’s events in light of the morning text; note one way you obeyed, one area needing growth Encouraging Promises to Keep You Expectant • “Give ear and come to Me; listen, that your soul may live.” (Isaiah 55:3) • “Call to Me and I will answer you and show you great and unsearchable things you do not know.” (Jeremiah 33:3) • “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it.” (Luke 11:28) Each new day brings the same gracious invitation: tune your ears to the living God, anchor your thoughts in His Word, and walk in the peace He speaks. |
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