The benefits of listening

Scripture: Mark 4:24-25 And he said unto them, Take heed what ye hear: with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you: and unto you that hear shall more be given. For he that hath, to him shall be given: and he that hath not, from him shall be taken even that which he hath.

Observation: Jesus had just finished sharing the interpretation of the Parable of the sower with his disciples. He told them to be sure they were rooted in the things of God, that they should be wary of Satan and the cares of this world, and that they should follow God with all of their heart and if they did so they would flourish. Now Jesus tells his disciples that they need to hear, listen, and do those things which they just heard.

Application: There is power in God's word. He has given us clear direction in his word that we should follow. The power is when we do what he has told us to do. When we do so, nothing can stop us. When we follow God, the power is not our own... but his.

Prayer: Dear Jesus, I pray that I would keep my eyes on you. I pray that I would listen to your Word. I pray that I would have understanding of your Word. I pray that I would do your Word and not be distracted by the things of this world. I trust you to provide that which you have said you will provide. Thank You.

Don't Interrupt God

Scripture: Matthew 17:3-6 And, behold, there appeared unto them Moses and Elias talking with him. Then answered Peter, and said unto Jesus, Lord, it is good for us to be here: if thou wilt, let us make here three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias. While he yet spake, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them: and behold a voice out of the cloud, which said, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him. And when the disciples heard [it], they fell on their face, and were sore afraid.

Observation: God was doing something here. Jesus was engaged in conversation with Moses and Elijah in an open heaven on earth. What an amazing thing! John, James, and Peter were able to witness this supernatural event. Peter, who is often full of zeal, interrupts the conversation of Jesus to promote his own idea. If the culture of Judea was anything similar to today's culture, what Peter did was a rude thing. Interrupting the King of the Universe is something that is not advisable. Father God's rebuke was about as gentle as he could possibly have made it, but it still scared Peter, James, and John beyond description.

Application: God is active in our lifes, he has an agenda and is engaged in things on our behalf. Often we get our own ideas, and we want to interupt God. Interrupting God is very disrespectful. It leads to going our own way, in our own strength, which causes problems. However, often our ideas are inspired of God. How can we know the difference? Listening to God is key. If Peter had listened closer to God, rather than listening to the ideas spinning through his head, he would have been in tune with the Holy Spirit. We need time with God to be able to discern his thoughts from our thoughts, and we need to listen closely with reverence and respect.

Prayer: Dear Jesus, open our hears Lord. Let us hear you clearly. Open our hearts Lord, let us desire you with a pure love. Open our minds Lord, let us know you as our closest friend. Amen