Wednesday, July 23, 2025

New Testament Reading Plan: Hebrews 13

Most of us would admit listening can be a daily challenge. It doesn’t help that there is no shortage of noise or voices surrounding us! Even when we want to listen, it can often seem impossible. 

This quote from Robert J. McCloskey sums it up: 

“I know that you believe you understand what you think I said, but I am not sure that you realize that what you heard is not what I meant.” 

Choosing to listen at a deeper level makes all the difference in the world. There is a distinct difference between listening and active listening. Becoming an active listener is a matter of choice and self-discipline.

While regularly attending Al-Anon Family Group meetings, and in prayer with my heavenly Father, I’ve found shutting down both mental and physical distractions is necessary for me to REALLY listen. What a revelation! It makes me realize that many of the uncomfortable consequences I’ve encountered in my life likely stem from one core issue: not actively listening to the best influencer of all – God.

It is undeniably God’s grace and mercy that have carried me this far in life. When we choose to walk in close relationship with God, it’s clear his love and desire to speak with us far exceed our expectations. The Holy Spirit longs to show up in our daily lives to speak to us.

Discerning the Holy Spirit’s voice isn’t as easy as it might sound. It requires intentional awareness and a heart tuned to God’s presence. We need to choose to engage with Scripture, prayer, and quiet reflection, because the more we actively listen when he speaks, the more familiar his voice will become. Through active listening, we can discern the path God is leading us to take. 

When we prayerfully and actively listen for God’s voice, Proverbs 3:6 becomes crystal clear: 

“Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.”

As we learn to respond to the promptings, urgings, and guidance of the Holy Spirit, our relationship with him grows deeper. Through this life-giving process, it becomes easier to align more closely with God’s will in all we do. 

Seek God’s will today!

Questions: 
Do you consider yourself to be a good listener? In what ways might you improve your listening skills? Do you know what it takes to listen with intention? 

Next Steps: 
Read what the Bible has to say about listening. Establish a place that allows for undistracted time with God. Learn how to differentiate God’s voice from the voices of others. 

Listen to Tauren Wells’ song “Known” and be reminded God’s love is beyond measure. 

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, at times, it puzzles me that you long to have a relationship with me. You always look past the mess I’ve made and choose to still love me. I’m so unworthy of the richness you offer, the richness of being in a relationship with you. Help me as I struggle to not take advantage of your grace and mercy. Thank you for continuing to love me in my current state. And thank you for loving me too much to leave me there. May the changes you arrange and make within me bring glory to your name. Those who really know me will be amazed at what you have done! I certainly am amazed! In Jesus’ name, amen.

Series Theme Verse:
Psalm 85:8
I listen carefully to what God the Lord is saying, for he speaks peace to his faithful people. But let them not return to their foolish ways.

This post was written by Karen Peck, a Perrysburg attendee, and a regular contributor to the Daily LivingItOut.