Listening vs. Hearing

“Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.”- James 1:22 NIV

       Did you know there was a difference in listening and hearing? How many times have you listened to sermon or Bible teaching and 30 minutes after it was over you couldn’t tell someone else what you heard? Could it be because you didn’t HEAR it at all, although you were listening? You didn’t absorb into your mind and heart that which was being said. That’s happened to me more times than I care to admit. Perhaps you were sleepy. Perhaps you’re easily distracted. When someone speaks the word of God, they are presenting a message that God had laid on their heart to share for those present at that particular time. We need to train ourselves to listen intently to that which is being said for it is food for our spirit and marching orders for our soul.

                  Not only are we to listen and DIGEST the words spoken, we are to put those words into action. If you lack boldness, ask that you be infused with a holy boldness to take action in the name of the Lord.  The Holy Spirit WILL instruct and guide you if you ask Him. The Lord God desires for you to imitate His Son, Jesus Christ. It is part of His plan for your life, to walk and talk with the authority of Christ. We have nothing at all to fear. The Spirit of God will rise up in you and you will do marvelous things in His name. Focus on that which the Lord lays before you and stand up for righteousness at all times. Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing!

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries