How can we apply the call to "hear the word of the LORD"? The Call to Hear the Word of the LORD “Consequently, faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ.” — Romans 10:17 • Scripture repeatedly commands, “Hear the word of the LORD” (e.g., Isaiah 1:10; Jeremiah 2:4; Hosea 4:1). • The verb “hear” carries the idea of listening with the intent to obey. • Because the Bible is the inspired, inerrant voice of God (2 Timothy 3:16), taking it in is not optional; it is life-giving. Why Hearing Matters • Hearing births faith (Romans 10:17). • Hearing positions us for blessing. Jesus said, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it” (Luke 11:28). • Hearing aligns us with our Shepherd: “My sheep listen to My voice; I know them, and they follow Me” (John 10:27). • Hearing exposes and transforms the heart: “For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any double-edged sword” (Hebrews 4:12). Practical Ways to Hear Daily immersion • Set a consistent time and place to read or listen to Scripture aloud. • Follow a reading plan that covers all of God’s counsel (Acts 20:27). Active listening • Read slowly, noting repeated words or commands. • Paraphrase the passage in your own words to be sure you grasp it. Memorization and meditation • “I have hidden Your word in my heart that I might not sin against You” (Psalm 119:11). • Write verses on cards, recite while commuting, and reflect on their meaning throughout the day. Gathered worship • Prioritize sitting under faithful preaching (Nehemiah 8:8). • Take notes, then review and apply them in the week ahead. Family discipleship • “These words I am commanding you today are to be upon your hearts. And you shall teach them diligently to your children” (Deuteronomy 6:6-7). • Read a short passage at meals; discuss its truths and model obedience. Guarding Against Common Obstacles • Busyness: crowding out Scripture with lesser tasks (Luke 10:40-42). • Selective hearing: accepting comforting texts while ignoring convicting ones (2 Timothy 4:3). • Pride: assuming familiarity equals mastery; stay humble and teachable (James 1:21). • Unconfessed sin: sin dulls spiritual hearing; keep short accounts with God (Psalm 66:18). Responding in Obedience • Put the Word into action: “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves” (James 1:22). • Share what you’ve heard. God’s truth is meant to be proclaimed (2 Corinthians 5:20). • Persevere; lifelong hearing leads to lifelong growth (Colossians 3:16). Ongoing Encouragement • Expect God to speak whenever Scripture is opened. • Rejoice that each word is true, reliable, and lovingly given for your good (Psalm 19:7-11). • Keep listening; the more attentively you hear, the more deeply you will know and love the Lord. |
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