How can we cultivate a heart that truly "has an ear" for God? Gathered Around the Call Revelation 13:9: “He who has an ear, let him hear.” Begin with Awe • Recognize that hearing God starts with humble reverence (Psalm 95:6–7). • Approach Scripture expecting the Author to speak (Psalm 119:18). Plow the Soil of the Heart • Confession keeps the heart soft (1 John 1:9). • Forgiveness of others removes blockages (Mark 11:25). • A teachable spirit welcomes correction (Proverbs 12:1). Tune Out the Clamor • Limit voices that dull discernment—media, gossip, cynicism (James 1:21). • Build quiet margins for prayerful listening (Mark 1:35). • Fast occasionally to heighten spiritual sensitivity (Luke 5:16, 35). Soak in the Word • Daily intake: read, recite, write, sing (Deuteronomy 6:6–9). • Memorize short passages that train the ear (Psalm 119:11). • Meditate until truths drop from head to heart (Joshua 1:8). Confirm What You Hear • The Spirit never contradicts Scripture (John 16:13). • Seek counsel from mature believers (Proverbs 11:14). • Look for Spirit-produced fruit—love, joy, peace, obedience (Galatians 5:22-23). Respond Immediately • “My sheep listen to My voice…they follow Me” (John 10:27). • Act on promptings rooted in Scripture before doubts harden the heart (Hebrews 3:15). Guard the Ear Daily • Stay alert; subtle sin dulls sensitivity (Ephesians 4:30). • Celebrate answered guidance to strengthen future hearing (Psalm 40:1-3). • Persist—listening deepens over a lifetime (Philippians 1:6). Encourage Others to Hear • Share testimonies of God’s direction (Psalm 66:16). • Read the Word aloud in family and church gatherings (1 Timothy 4:13). • Model a responsive life; example amplifies teaching (1 Peter 5:3). |
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