Ears to Hear

God has much to say, and we have much to hear. Let us be slow to speak, and quick to listen. When we speak, let it be as the oracles of God, in fear and trembling, knowing it is not our wisdom or understanding, realizing that out of the fullness of the heart the mouth speaks.

Ecclesiastes 5:2 Don't be impulsive with your mouth nor be in a hurry to talk in God's presence. Since God is in heaven and you're on earth, keep your speech short.

Let us be so attentive to hear God's words rather than man's words, that when we speak, it is from the fullness of God's heart, and our heart is motivated by the spirit of God. The words of God's heart and mind bring life and peace, but the words from our thoughts and feelings cannot lift up or encourage, strengthen or enlighten.

1 Peter 4:11 If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God...so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.

It is such a blessing to hear someone, who has spent time in prayer and time in the Word of God, speak the truths which they have practiced walking in their own lives. By seeing the type of life they live, whether it is one of serving others or serving themselves, we can know whether the blessing and the strength of God is with them in what they do, and whether we can safely learn from them.

1 Timothy 4:16 Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers.

Father God, today we yield our mouths and our lips and our tongues to Your service. We desire to lift up others, encourage those around us, bringing strength and joy to the hearts of those we encounter. Thank You that we have Your Spirit with us to turn off the flow of salt water, bitter water and by Your grace let the sweet water of the Spirit of God flow from inside us. We keep our minds stayed on You today, and our lips filled with Your praise.

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