Listening

Then He added, “Pay close attention to what you hear. The closer you listen, the more understanding you will be given and you will receive even more.” Mark 4:24

On regular basis we are exposed to listen to so many messages from so many places, some conflicting.  How do we decipher which ones to trust?  Well, the best way to find truth amid the clutter is to read the Bible and trust God’s promises and the Holy Spirit to enlighten us. That is how we can determine to know who to listen to. I read the story of King Abijah of Judah in 2 Chronicles 13.  When Israel was ready to fight, He did something peculiar before the battle began. He was standing in the battlefield, outnumbered.  He claimed the promises of God aloud for all to hear, both armies.  The key to the battle wasn’t in the strength of either side’s forces, but for Abijah of Judah, his team was trusting God. 

I was reminded like Abijah, when we’re lonely and afraid, and outnumbered, God promises never to leave or forsake us. Deuteronomy 31:8 says: “Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord will personally go ahead of you. He will be with you; he will neither fail you nor abandon you.” Focusing on who God is and following through on what He’s called us to will always be challenging.  But, choosing to believe and obey God’s promises gives us the courage to move forward fearless.

Abijah had so much trust in God that he spoke with confidence to say this: “Do you really think you can stand against the Kingdom of the Lord”? He clearly showed the importance of trusting God over human substitutes and who had rejected God. By far God resources are greater than human resources because they are incomparable.  At times we may be outnumbered but we can claim the promises of God aloud for all to hear even our enemies like he did. The Word of God gives us insight  enabling us to be transformed daily.

Pray your response to the Lord personally, meaningfully and genuinely.

Reflect: With so many influences around us seeking your attention to make decisions today, how do you know what to believe?

Based on scripture, what is one more step you can take to let God’s Word dwell in you richly?