“But the wisdom from above is first pure (morally and spiritually undefiled), then peace-loving (courteous, considerate), gentle, reasonable (and willing to listen), full of compassion and good fruits. It is unwavering, without (self righteousness) hypocrisy (and self-serving guile).”  James 3:17 Amplified Bible

A Listening Heart

I thought I was a good listener, paying attention to the change-ups, willing to be corrected with a pleasant response. But recently, the Lord has shown me that this is not true. I react instead of truly listening. I can listen when it’s  comfortable, or pleasant, but when it’s what I don’t agree with, or completely out of my understanding, I run and don’t wait for truth to be revealed.

The Lord is teaching me that I need to be still and truly listen to Him as never before. This needs to be my deepest desire because He is my lifeline and truly the only answer to all concerns as this promise says and encourages: “Then (with deep longing) you will seek Me and require Me (as a vital necessity) and (you will) find Me when you search for Me with all your heart. I will be found by you, says the LORD, and I will restore your fortunes and I will (free you and) gather you” (Jeremiah 29:13-14 AMP). This promise was written to the Jewish exiles in captivity but applies to us.

At this time in the world of such uncertainly because of this virus, which has turned all normal things upside down, we need to stop and seek the LORD for His presence, love, wisdom, and knowledge that He is in complete control. He is our sovereign LORD, characterized in love, and will accomplish His best end. He will be glorified as He is calling us deeper into His holiness, righteousness, and love—however this looks in our individual circumstances. He is our Rock and He never changes.

Knowing this, I can be a light for my family when they may respond in fear, anger, or confusion, not reacting to their response the same way, but in love and wisdom. Sometimes this shows just in being quiet and letting them vent, praying God will meet them exactly where they need Him. (Its not easy because my mouth gets ahead of my brain.)

This is the reason to spend my idle time in the Word and in prayer, allowing the Lord to fill my mind with His Word and thoughts. He promises to meet us in this place and reveals where we may need to repent and obey. I can’t fix this, only He can. His answer is: “With lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love” (Ephesians 4:2). “Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one” (Colossians 4:6).

Lord, we need You desperately. Only You are our peace and solace, and You will resolve all that concerns us. Help us to listen and seek You with all of our hearts, allowing Your correction, that we are able to listen and respond by revealing Your love to all those You have given us in our lives. To You be the glory! Amen.