Hearing Test

Read Proverbs 1

Come and listen to my counsel. I’ll share my heart with you and make you wise.

Proverbs 1:23

A memorable distinction we learn from watching children is the difference between hearing and listening. Sure, children hear what adults say. “Stop that.” “Come here.” But do they listen? The answer to that question is, “selectively,” at best. Many parents are mystified by a child’s uncanny ability to hear the tinkling of the neighborhood ice-cream truck still blocks away, while feigning acute deafness when being summoned for dinner from the next room.

In the same way, we may “hear” what God says through a pastor or our own personal Bible study. But are we really listening to God? Listening implies open hearts as well as open ears. As with children, obedience is the sign that listening has taken place. When we listen to God in this way, he promises to pour out his wisdom on the soil of our hearts. We grow wise as a result.

A WORD FOR TODAY

Listen to wisdom!

Today, Lord, make my ears quick to listen to your voice. Make my heart ready to respond with obedience.