Listen
- Feb 26, 2024
- 2 min read
I'm NOT proposing that you seek a mystical experience with God when you draw near to Him. (https://www.gotquestions.org/contemplative-prayer.html)
God has given us His Word and His Holy Spirit to guide and teach us, and He will never tell you something that contradicts what He has revealed in the Bible.
What I am suggesting is
listening to God through His Word when you pray. (John 17:6-8, 17)
pouring out your heart to God and seek answers in His Word. (https://www.bsfblog.org/listening-to-his-voice/)
seeking God's perspective and will to guide your prayers. (https://www.gotquestions.org/praying-will-of-God.html)
seeking clarity regarding your motives. (Hebrews 4:12-14)
worshiping God for Who He is. (Job 42:1-6)
asking God for a proper perspective of Him, yourself, and others. (Ephesians 3:14-21)
surrendering your plans, your dreams, your heart, your agenda, your day to God. (Romans 12:1-2)
I must be honest: praying is not easy for me. My natural tendency is to assume that prayer is only productive if it FEELS productive. I'm learning that prayer is not about me. It's an opportunity to give God my mind, will and body (Romans 12:1-2), and to listen to Him. I usually pray with the Bible open in front of me, asking God to help me let go of wrong thinking and to guide me in how to pray for myself and others.
Psalm 19:6-14 (NIV)
"The law of the Lord is perfect, refreshing the soul.The statutes of the Lord are trustworthy, making wise the simple. The precepts of the Lord are right, giving joy to the heart.The commands of the Lord are radiant, giving light to the eyes The fear of the Lord is pure, enduring forever.The decrees of the Lord are firm, and all of them are righteous. They are more precious than gold, than much pure gold; they are sweeter than honey, than honey from the honeycomb. By them your servant is warned; in keeping them there is great reward. But who can discern their own errors? Forgive my hidden faults. Keep your servant also from willful sins; may they not rule over me.Then I will be blameless, innocent of great transgression."
God, please forgive my hidden faults and keep me from willful sins. Amen!