How should we respond when God speaks to us, as seen in Jeremiah 13:3? The Setting in Jeremiah 13:3 “Then the word of the LORD came to me a second time, saying:” (Jeremiah 13:3) • Jeremiah has just carried out God’s unusual order to buy and hide a linen waistband (vv. 1–2). • Before he sees the meaning of that first command, God speaks again. • The prophet models an alert, obedient posture—ears still open, heart still yielded. Key Observations from the Verse • God’s voice is personal: “the word of the LORD came to me.” • God may repeat or add to earlier instructions: “a second time.” • No hesitation is recorded; Jeremiah’s listening continues uninterrupted. Principles for Responding When God Speaks Immediate attentiveness • Like Jeremiah, keep spiritual ears tuned. 1 Samuel 3:10—“Speak, for Your servant is listening.” • Make space for the word through Scripture reading, quiet meditation, and gathered worship. Humble receptivity • God owes no explanations, yet He graciously speaks (Psalm 25:9). • Approach His word with the posture of Isaiah 66:2—“This is the one I will esteem: he who is humble and contrite in spirit, who trembles at My word.” Prompt obedience • Jeremiah’s readiness to act embodies James 1:22—“Be doers of the word, and not hearers only.” • Obedience confirms genuine hearing (John 10:27). Persevering responsiveness • “A second time” suggests an ongoing dialogue, not a one-off moment. • Stay available for fresh direction; yesterday’s faithfulness invites today’s assignment (Luke 16:10). Trust in God’s unfolding plan • Jeremiah obeyed before understanding the symbolism of the waistband (later explained in vv. 8–11). • Faith accepts that clarity may follow obedience (Proverbs 3:5-6). A Simple Checklist for Our Own Response □ Listen daily in the Word. □ Test what we perceive by Scripture’s sure standard (Acts 17:11). □ Yield our will ahead of time—“yes, Lord,” before details arrive. □ Act without delay, trusting God for results. □ Remain teachable; God may “speak again” to adjust or deepen the assignment. Encouraging Promises for the Listener • John 14:21—obedient lovers of Jesus receive further revelation of Him. • Luke 11:28—“Blessed are those who hear the word of God and keep it.” • Hebrews 13:20-21—He equips us “in every good thing to do His will.” When the Lord speaks, the pattern is simple yet life-changing: listen, trust, and obey—immediately and continually. |