Listening to God

Are you listening? We have the ability to engage in selective listening. We hear what we want to hear. We choose to tune in or to tune out.

“Then a cloud appeared and enveloped them, and a voice came from the cloud: ‘This is my Son, whom I love. Listen to him!'” Mark 9:7 (NIV)

Peter, James, and John had a mountaintop experience with Jesus on Mt. Transfiguration. They were privileged to hear the voice of God affirming His Son and our Savior, Jesus. God’s direct word to them was an imperative for them to listen to Jesus. Listening is equivalent to obeying. Thus, to listen to Jesus is to obey Him.

“We know that we have come to know him if we obey his commands.” 1 John 2:3 (NIV)

Can you hear me now? God is a God who speaks. He has revealed Himself to us through His Son and through Scripture. To know Jesus is to know God. To grow in your knowledge of Jesus is to grow in your understanding of His Word. Revelation demands a response. God expects instant obedience.

How do you know if you are really listening to God? Is your life marked by obedience to God’s Word? Obedience to God’s Word is a clear indicator of your level of listening to God.

Is your life too noisy to hear from God? Is your schedule too busy to hear from God? The men and women who have been greatly used of God have ensured unhurried time alone with God each day. They intentionally carved out time to be still and simply listen for God’s voice.

“‘Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.'” Psalms 46:10 (NIV)

Pursuing God,

Stephen Trammell
Pastor of Leadership and Pastoral Care