INTIMACY THROUGH LISTENING

“Why do you not understand My speech? Because you are not able to LISTEN to MY WORD” – John 8:43

On the platforms of Prayer and the Word, Believers grow in Divine INTIMACY through LISTENING: “Why do you not understand My speech? Because you are not able to LISTEN to MY WORD” (Jh.8:43). Here, our Lord Jesus Christ was speaking to “those Jews who believed Him” (v.31). To listen is to pay attention, heed or hearken. Effective listening is basic to knowing the Truth and being made free (v.32). Children of God listen to Him; while children of the devil listen to the devil and speak like the liar and the father of it (vv.38-44). Skillful listening is a non-negotiable skill for all who desire to enjoy the best of relationship with God and with other people. Relationships thrive on Good Listening!

Most people are better at talking than listening, but communicating with the Lord involves both. Listening is crucial to living, whether we’re receiving a Word ministration, hearing video or audio messages, communicating with God in personal prayer, fellowshipping with brethren; or in life’s hustle-and-bustle. Our God-tuned internal “receiver” develops through devoted prayer, meditation, and learning to listen. We must be cautious and watchful about what we listen to and how: “So take care how you listen” (Lk.8:18a). God wants to speak to us about His plans for our lives and the lives of others. His plans are always the best, but we could miss it if we don’t learn how to listen to His voice.

Intimacy is both the secret and the reward of listening. By spending time with acquaintances, we know how they talk – the expressions they use, the tone of their voice and the changes in their pitch when they're excited or sad. That's the way it should be with God: We know Him – His Character, Nature, Passions, Pleasures and Displeasure – so well that we recognize Him and His place in our lives. God is inviting us to know more than just His Voice. He invites us to the amazing opportunity of knowing Him intimately. Ultimately it is how we hear that reveals who we are: “…He who is of God hears God’s words; therefore you do not hear, because you are not of God” (Jh. 8:47).

The Good Shepherd says, “My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me” (Jh.10: 27). Learning to listen to God is a critical part of following His Will. He speaks to His children through the scriptures, inner witness in prayer, divinely orchestrated circumstances, and by means of pastors, mentors, and others. The Bible is our guidebook to God’s thoughts and actions; the primary source for discovering His Character and learning to trust Him. Like all real friends, the Lord desires mutual communication and communion in His relationships. There is a place to quiet our mouth and thoughts for our spiritual ears to hear. Our souls’ life, health, and growth all depend on how well we listen.