I’ve always been fascinated by these often-repeated words of Jesus, as it sounds as if some people don’t have ears! Well of course many, like me, do have ears that are perfectly formed and yet can’t hear. I hear some sounds but can’t distinguish any speech and most sound is just a rabble of noise in my ears.
But Jesus wasn’t talking about whether we can physically hear or struggle with different degrees of deafness. He was referring to how we choose to listen. What do we give our focus to? What will we allow to shape our way of thinking and feeling about ourselves and what do we dwell upon to lift up our hearts in worship?
I have just started a new book, but as soon as I tried toget my thoughts together, I found myself bombarded by negatives. ‘Who do you think you are, writing about hearing God’s voice? You’re no expert! Leave it to those who actually listen!’ As the ugly thoughts came, I shrivelled inside feeling sick that I’d been so presumptuous. I wanted to run away and hide.
But Jesus tells us to have ears to hear what the Spirit is saying. He doesn’t see it as presumption to say that God is speaking to us because He has created us and is expecting us to hear divine truths that will root us in God’s love and purpose. But we instinctively listen to all the negatives and impart so much power to them that we live stunted and fear filled lives instead of being full of the joy and certainty that God longs for us to know. I sense it’s vital that we start listening to God with expectation that He delights in revealing His heart to us. He calls us His beloved children and His chosen friends with whom He loves to communicate.
This morning Marilyn was feeling panicky because of a challenging situation. She said to Jesus, ‘Lord please help me, I don’t know how to work this out.’ He spoke into her heart saying, ‘Don’t be afraid, I’ve already arranged everything and it will all work out perfectly.’ Marilyn was amazed and her fear drained away as she received His word of reassurance. All the details did work out in an amazing way and she was so glad she’d heard Him speaking into her anxiety.
What are you listening to today? Whose voice are you opening the door of your heart to? Do you have ears to hear what the Spirit is telling you? He always speaks to encourage, edify and bring you comfort. Choose today to NOT listen to Satan’s voice that steals your joy and destroys your peace. God has words to bring you new life and hope today. Will you listen?
Prayer Lord Jesus please forgive me for listening to the wrong voice so often. Thank you that your voice is full of life and peace. I choose to listen to you Lord and live my life on the foundation of your truth. Thank you that your words heal me and set me free, empower and anoint me. Thank you loving Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Amen.
