In what ways can we prioritize God's word in our busy lives? Hearing and Obeying: The Heart of Blessing “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it.” (Luke 11:28) Jesus links true blessing to two inseparable actions—hearing and obeying. The command is clear, and the promise is compelling: if we align our lives with Scripture, we step into the sphere of God’s favor, no matter how packed our schedules may be. Recognizing the Obstacles of a Hectic Schedule • Work deadlines, extracurricular activities, nonstop notifications, and an always-online culture constantly compete for attention. • Without intentionality, the noise of life drowns out the still, small voice of God’s word (1 Kings 19:12). • Busyness often masquerades as productivity, yet leaves the soul malnourished (Mark 8:36). Practical Ways to Prioritize Scripture • Put it on the calendar: treat time in the Word like any essential appointment. • Firstfruits principle: begin the day with Scripture before emails or social media (Psalm 5:3). • Commute devotion: listen to audio Bible or expositional podcasts while driving or on public transit (Deuteronomy 6:7). • Memorization moments: post verses on mirrors, dashboards, and phone lock screens (Psalm 119:11). • Technology for good: set reminders or use Bible-reading apps that track progress without enabling distraction. • Family worship: read aloud at the dinner table; Scripture becomes the household’s shared language (Ephesians 6:4). • Weekly reset: Sabbath rest that includes unhurried Bible meditation (Isaiah 58:13-14). • Accountability: join a small group or reading partner who checks in regularly (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Bedtime review: close the day by rereading a verse and rehearsing how it shaped decisions (Joshua 1:8). Scriptural Models of Devoted Attention • Joshua meditated “day and night” to prosper in God’s calling (Joshua 1:8). • The Bereans examined the Scriptures daily to confirm truth (Acts 17:11). • Mary sat at Jesus’ feet, choosing “the good portion” that would not be taken away (Luke 10:39-42). • The blessed man of Psalm 1 “delights in the law of the LORD” and flourishes like a tree by streams of water. Promises Tied to Immersing in the Word • Spiritual maturity and full equipping for every good work (2 Timothy 3:16-17). • Stability and fruitfulness amid life’s storms (Psalm 1:3; Matthew 7:24-25). • Freedom in obedience: “He who looks intently into the perfect law… being no forgetful hearer but an effective doer, will be blessed in what he does” (James 1:25). • Renewed mind that discerns God’s will (Romans 12:2). Momentum for a Lifetime Small, consistent choices turn into lifelong habits. Ten minutes today can grow into a hunger that reorganizes an entire schedule around Christ’s teaching. By hearing and obeying, even the busiest believer inherits the blessing Jesus promises, experiencing Scripture not as one more task, but as the life-giving center of every day. |
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