Listening is learning, especially if you are listening to God. Jesus said, “No one lights a lamp and hides it in a clay jar or puts it under a bed. Instead, they put it on a stand, so that those who come in can see the light …  Therefore consider carefully how you listen. Whoever has will be given more; whoever does not have, even what they think they have will be taken from them” (Luke 8:16, 18, NIV).

These words both encourage and warn me. Listening well means that when God provides light (or insight), such as showing us something new or affirming a new direction, we adapt to the light. As we apply what we learn, our light or understanding expands.

If, however, we shelve the illumination we receive until a time that better suits us, we risk losing it. In other words, insight applied grows and glows through our lives. Insight hidden, dims and eventually goes out.

As I read these verses, the Lord brought to mind something I sensed He had said to me at a recent conference. When I came home and began to act on it, I felt intimidated, doubted I had heard Him correctly and decided I was too busy to act on it now anyway.

As I read the above verses I realized I don’t know what will happen if I act, but I know what will happen if I don’t. I will miss an opportunity to experience God and be enriched.

Jesus said, “My food is to do the will of Him who sent Me and to accomplish His work” (John 4:34, NASB). Obeying God satisfies as well as enlightens.

What has God said to you in His Word? Has He given you encouragement, a warning, correction, a fresh vision? What have you done with what He’s said?

Remember this principle: use the light, or lose it. When we come to God’s Word, we listen carefully by applying what we learn.

Blessings,

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