One of the lessons I am learning from the Lord this month is that I am not the best listener. I can be but when I get really excited, which is a lot of my life, I jump in before it is my turn. I will be interacting with someone and cut them off in a minute to share what I have to say. Instead of waiting for my turn to speak or share I just jump right in. The Lord brought it to my attention after only a couple of days in Moldova, while I was chatting with my contact and I was cutting him off before he could finish.
Not only was it something I received from the Lord but also a teammate gave me feedback about it. How I need to slow down, listen to what is being shared, and then it will be my turn to speak. By allowing myself to slow down I also take in more of the conversation, understand more, and ask fewer questions. Taking the time to listen is a life skill I am working on and know it will make me more effective for the kingdom.
My prayer during this time of learning is to take advantage of the fact that I have two ears and one mouth. God desired me this way for a reason, so I can take in more than I put out. This is a saying we have all heard but it is truly becoming a way in which I need to transform my life. I am not saying I plan to change my character or the crazy things that I say- ok, maybe I will time to think about appropriateness before I open my mouth- but this does mean learning to wait my turn when sharing and knowing I will have an opportunity to speak.
“The ear that listens to life-giving reproof will dwell among the wise.”
Proverbs 15:31
Another aspect of listening that I am learning from the Lord is how to be still and listen to His voice. I am not talking about the audible voice of God but however He may speak to you. For me He speaks to me in the moments of stillness I spend with Him, typically in the mornings before I start my day, and knowing it is my Dad talking to me. Taking time to be still is something I struggle with and I am always longing for more time with my Dad. Spending time in the Word and worshipping God before I start my day is something I have learned is essential to productive days in the Lord. When I don’t spend this time with the Lord I can tell and my days are typically not as fruitful.
I challenge you to take the time you need with the Lord today, and in the stillness see how He speaks to you. I would love to hear how this goes, email me at [email protected] with how He shows up and/or any way I can be praying for you.
