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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THAT IS THE TRUTH! I believe that revelation is progressive and timely. He who has been given much of him much will be required. God knows what we know. My guess is He won’t give us more to be accountable for if we haven’t applied what He has given us. Thanks for the great message. They always pull me in!
Thanks Debbie!
I’m sharing!