READING: Psalm 40
Many of us are naturally talkers. That is, we think we have something to say, and we usually get our words into a conversation. Those words aren’t always bad, and communication really is important in our relationships—including our relationship with God. Sometimes, though, many of us who like to talk also struggle with just listening. Our mouths move so often that we fail to use our ears very well.
In our practical discipleship this week, I’m challenged personally to quietly read the Word – and just listen to it. I do think it’s important to read the Word and respond to God in prayer as we read it, but even then we sometimes read a little and talk a lot. Instead, today I want us to hear the Word, listen to it, meditate on it, digest it, and love it—all without our adding our voice to the conversation. For example, take some time today to slowly, patiently, and deeply read this section of Psalm 40:
I waited patiently for the Lord, and he turned to me and heard my cry for help.
He brought me up from a desolate pit, out of the muddy clay, and set my feet on a rock, making my steps secure.
He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God.
Many will see and fear, and they will trust in the Lord.
How happy is anyone who has put his trust in the Lord and has not turned to the proud or to those who run after lies!
Lord my God, you have done many things—your wondrous works and your plans for us; none can compare with you.
If I were to report and speak of them,they are more than can be told. (Psalm 40:1-5)
Again, just read the Word. Hear it. Be amazed.
PRAYER: “Lord, teach me just to listen to Your Word.”
TOMORROW’S READING: 1 Kings 17-18, John 7:1-24
