Listen to Him

Probably the greatest difficulty in any relationship is the ability to open healthy communication lines.  It's no different in our relationship with God.  All to often we want to turn to God in prayer and tell Him everything that we want Him to do.  We finish our prayer with an, "Amen," then move on with our day.  What if He had something to say back?  What if He wanted to say something in the first place, before we gave Him our list of things to do for us.  In fact, He even has something to say about this very topic.


Do you see someone who speaks in haste? There is more hope for a fool than for them.  (Proverbs 29:20 NIV)

Listen to advice and accept discipline, and at the end you will be counted among the wise. Many are the plans in a person's heart, but it is the LORD's purpose that prevails. (Proverbs 19:20-21 NIV)

I've heard the saying before that God gave you two ears and one mouth because He intended you to listen twice as much as you speak.  I'm not sure if the ratio is exact, but I do know that I learn much more with my mouth shut and my ears open.  When building a relationship with God, these principles hold true.  How do I learn to listen to God and hear His voice?  Simple.  Listen to what He's said to other people in the past.  His Words are captured in the pages of your Bible.

Your word is a lamp to my feet And a light to my path. I have sworn and I will confirm it, That I will keep Your righteous ordinances. I am exceedingly afflicted; Revive me, O LORD, according to Your word. O accept the freewill offerings of my mouth, O LORD, And teach me Your ordinances. My life is continually in my hand, Yet I do not forget Your law. The wicked have laid a snare for me, Yet I have not gone astray from Your precepts. I have inherited Your testimonies forever, For they are the joy of my heart. I have inclined my heart to perform Your statutes Forever, even to the end.  (Psalms 119:105-112 NASB)

You've set aside the quiet time each day.  You made the effort to enter into His presence.  Now take the time to listen to Him.  You might be surprised at what you hear.