How can we cultivate a heart attentive to God's "blossoming" work around us? Key Verse “Behold, I am about to do something new; even now it is coming. Do you not see it? Indeed, I will make a way in the wilderness and streams in the desert.” – Isaiah 43:19 Why Attentiveness Matters • God is constantly acting—His works never stall (John 5:17). • He invites us to notice, rejoice, and join Him (Psalm 66:5; Ephesians 2:10). • Awareness fuels our worship, steadies our faith, and shapes our witness. Barriers to Seeing God’s New Growth • Noise: crowded schedules leave no margin (Mark 6:31). • Neglect of Scripture: without daily intake, spiritual eyesight dims (Psalm 119:105). • Cynicism: repeated disappointments can harden the heart (Hebrews 3:12-13). • Unconfessed sin: cherished sin clouds vision (Psalm 32:3-4; 1 John 1:9). Ways to Cultivate an Attentive Heart 1. Soak in Scripture daily – Read slowly, aloud if possible. – Watch for God’s character and promises; underline verbs that show His action. – Let the Word renew your mind (Romans 12:2). 2. Practice stillness – Schedule brief “be still” moments (Psalm 46:10). – Use them to breathe, silence devices, and simply acknowledge God’s presence. 3. Keep a gratitude log – Record three evidences of God’s goodness each day (James 1:17). – Review weekly to trace His blossoming work. 4. Pray with open eyes – As you walk, drive, or sit in meetings, whisper thanks for glimpses of grace. – Ask, “Lord, show me what You’re planting here.” 5. Walk in step with the Spirit – Submit each decision, inviting His lead (Galatians 5:25). – Obedience heightens sensitivity; disobedience dulls it (John 14:21). 6. Serve someone quietly – Look for needs and meet one without fanfare (Matthew 6:3-4). – Serving positions us where God already works. 7. Share testimonies – Tell others what you notice (Psalm 71:15-16). – Hearing and speaking God’s deeds trains the heart to expect more. Putting It into Practice This Week • Choose one Gospel chapter to read each morning. • Set a five-minute midday “stillness alarm.” • Note every instance of answered prayer or unexpected kindness. • End each day by thanking God for one “new thing” you witnessed. Encouragement from Other Passages • “Look at the nations and see; be utterly astounded. For I am doing a work in your days that you would never believe, even if you were told.” – Habakkuk 1:5 • “The desert and the parched land will be glad; the wilderness will rejoice and blossom like a rose.” – Isaiah 35:1 • “Whatever you do in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.” – Colossians 3:17 Stay alert—He is already turning wilderness into gardens all around you. |
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