Last week we discussed the way to pray and how important it is to LISTEN to what God has to say to us during our prayer time.  Today, I would like talk more about this listening portion and what to do while we are listening.

If one gives an answer before he hears, it is his folly and shame. Proverbs 18:13

Sometimes I think my picture should be placed next to some of these Bible verses.  Jeez!!!

Just the other day I was having lunch with a good friend of mine and we were discussing our attempts to listen to God when we pray.  Our church actually has a ‘listening prayer’ time that I have not done, but it sounds very cool…see, I was listening J

My friend said she has been writing down what she has been getting out of her time “listening” to God.  At this point, she is hearing that she needs to stay close to God, be patient and wait on God to reveal His plan.

Not exactly what many of us would like to hear.

I would wager that most of us would like a detailed plan that guides us step by step towards the direction we would like to go.

Hmmmm…not usually how God works.   In fact, I would dare say that God wants us to WAIT or BE PATIENT more times than not.  Sigh.

Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him; fret not yourself over the one who prospers in his way, over the man who carries out evil devices! Refrain from anger, and forsake wrath! Fret not yourself; it tends only to evil. For the evildoers shall be cut off, but those who wait for the Lord shall inherit the land. Psalm 37:7-9

I really thought my friend has made a grand discovery!!  Writing down our prayers and what is revealed to us during our listening to God time will help us see over time how God is working in our lives.

Please note the underlined “over time” portion of the above sentence.  Most things in life that are worth anything are worth waiting for and that includes directions from God.

However, do not be deceived.  Waiting and being patient are not passive actions.  They are ACTIVE.

We can do a ton while we are waiting and being patient!!

What, you might ask?

Well, for one, we can be still and know that God will respond to our prayers.  We can continue to pray.  And, the best thing we can do is help others.

Our circumstances may not change overnight, but that doesn’t mean we cannot respond to God’s call to be His Hands and Feet for the rest of the world.

How’s that listening going for you?

Some Wisdom for Today:  Proverbs 1:33 – But whoever listens to me will dwell secure and will be at ease, without dread of disaster.