Did You Hear That?
This morning I got up very early, as usual, and went to my familiar spot to have a devotional time with God--- which usually consists of quoting scriptures (while stretching), praying, reading a few verses of the Bible, and journaling. My morning devotions keep my mind, spirit, and emotions in the right place and prepare me to start the day. It’s a good routine, but I always have to remember, it’s not about my actions; instead, it’s about my relationship with God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Having a quiet time routine is good, but it can end up feeling perfunctory. When it comes to spending time with God, you can just go through the motions and not end up with an actual relationship.
This morning, I did something different: no quoting scripture, no Bible verses, and no journaling. I simply spent 30 minutes flat on my face, listening.
God speaks to us in a still small voice when we are willing to listen, and that is the heart of any relationship, especially the one with our Heavenly Father.
“Take time to listen to the most important voice you will ever hear in your life.”
God wants to speak to you, but how willing you are to take time to listen? One of the best things you can do to honor someone is to listen to them. The same is true with God. If you want a close relationship with God and want to hear from him, you must actively listen. God will not force himself on you; He wants you to spend time with Him.
Here are some tips for listening to God.
Dedicate quiet and uninterrupted time to do this. For many parents, this needs to happen in the early morning or later in the evening.
Ask God to speak to you as you quiet your mind. Depending on how busy your mind is, this could take some time. For me, it can take a few minutes or up to 20 minutes. During this time, I make sure to jot things down that come to mind that I need to remember.
Mentally turn everything over to God, such as your worries, your thoughts, and even the many blessings He has given you.
Relax and listen. Many times, I am lying flat on the ground as I do this.
Trust that God will speak to you. He is just waiting for you.
Write down what He has shown you.
Here are some essential questions for the week to answer and keep in front of you:
1) How much time do you spend each day listening to God?
2) How do you hear Him?
3) What do you want Him to answer for you?
Prayer: “Speak to me, Lord, for your child is here, listening. Speak to me, Lord, for your child is here, waiting on you. Unveil my eyes, let me see you. Unveil my heart, let me know you, Father” (Rebecca St. James, “Speak to Me”).
Scriptures: 1 Samuel 3:7-11