I have a hard time listening sometimes. When I was in kindergarten, I listened to the wrong things at the wrong time. My little friend, Theresa, was chattering away to me at the same time my teacher was speaking. I chose the wrong one to listen to and ended up getting into trouble. Our teacher put masking tape on BOTH our mouths so that we could concentrate on listening.
I learned that lesson well. However, as a grown-up there are many many things competing for my attention. Once, my youngest was trying to get my attention but I was listening to everything but her. She put her little hands on my face and turned me to look at her and said, "Momma, I talka to you!"
Okay, point taken.
I wonder if sometimes God wants to do the same thing to get my attention. I need to listen to him instead of all the minutia of life. The Old Testament prophet Elijah learned that God speaks in a still small voice. How can we hear that voice today in all of the constant noise that pollutes our world?
My, right this very second, I hear a siren! The noises of life press in all around me. I have to be intentional about quiet and listening for that still small voice. I'm hungry to hear it!
STOP
1. Write for 5 minutes flat – no editing, no over thinking, no backtracking.
2. Link back here and invite others to join in.
3. And then absolutely, no ifs, ands or buts about it, you need to visit the person who linked up before you & encourage them in their comments. Seriously. That is, like, the rule. And the fun. And the heart of this community..
Sounds like fun, yes? If you want to join us, go to Lisa-Jo Baker.com.
2. Link back here and invite others to join in.
3. And then absolutely, no ifs, ands or buts about it, you need to visit the person who linked up before you & encourage them in their comments. Seriously. That is, like, the rule. And the fun. And the heart of this community..
Sounds like fun, yes? If you want to join us, go to Lisa-Jo Baker.com.
Oh, so true! In a book I read this year, the author claimed that one of the greatest obstacles to intimacy with Christ is the NOISE in our life! Love these thoughts.
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing your post on FMF!
ReplyDeleteListening is a skill I need to continually grow in, too. I find myself wanting to check my texts or look at something else or just let my mind wander when I'm supposed to be listening. Lord, have mercy on us all to be better listeners to each other!
ReplyDeleteI like that you write about our having to be intentional...and even then there are so many distractions.
ReplyDeleteI am trying to listen more with friends and more importantly with God.
Dear Jerralea
ReplyDeleteOh, what a precious lesson your daughter taught you! Our minds are always so bombarded by noise and busyness, no wonder our Lord tells us to be still and to know that He is God!
Much love
Mia
I'm hungry to hear that still small voice too! Thanks for a great post- love the picture of your little girl and the "Momma, I talka to you!" So cute!
ReplyDeleteThanks for visiting my blog. Always fun to "meet" new blogging friends!
Hi Jerralea! I'm here from Five Minute Friday.
ReplyDeleteI loved your remembering kindergarten, and then your daughter too. Who knew that those two things would be connected one day!
Loved your 'voice'
I think I'll be joining your blog!