The word listen is in the ESV version of scripture 198 times and the word hear even more at 471. And, the word heard 600!
A few years back, before we streamed everything online, when ipods were popular, my son gave me a purple one for Christmas and filled it with music, from every genre for me. On the back, he engraved Listen up Lisa.
Very wise words indeed.
It was a very special gift, one that will be forever kept.
In order to listen to what's on the Ipod, ear phones are necessary. When wearing them, the rest of the world is muted, if not actually sealed out. This encourages focus.
Listening, not singing along, but actually hearing-paying attention to the music, the rhythm, the different instruments, the lyrics, and feeling the pace of the songs, opens a whole new world. You leave the cares of where you are, what's happening, and begin to understand different perspectives, learn what you really enjoy, and are able to be transported, if you will, to another time and place.
This listening is not about you. You may be able to relate to it. You may even be able to absorb it as your own. But it came from another source.
Listening is not speaking. It's taking in, without thinking of what to say or what will occur next. It's being present in the moment.
Then the song or style we relate to, jive with the beat, cry with emotion, or get encouraged. It has a response!
To sum up listening:
1. Pay attention to what is being said.
2. Focus
3. Be present
4. Hearing and talking are not simultaneous actions
5. True listening evokes a response
Proverbs 8:32-33 And now, O sons, listen to me: blessed are those who keep my ways. Hear instruction and be wise, and do not neglect it.
Luke 9:35 And a voice came out of the cloud, saying, “This is my Son, my Chosen One; listen to him!”
Do you know what He says? Are you focusing on Him? Are you present in the moment when He speaks? What's your response to His word?
Listen Up Lisa (insert your own name)
He is speaking!