Stop, Look, Listen

(Proverbs 8:6 KJV)  Hear; for I will speak of excellent things; and the opening of my lips shall be right things.

The key to wisdom and understanding is to “hear” (listen NASB) (8085).  As people of the book this means to listen to the written word.  This means to read with our minds turned on and seeking.  How often do believers read the Word as an exercise instead of an interaction.  We are told to read and being closet legalists we want to know exactly how many verses or chapters.  If we get our one chapter a day, we feel we have fulfilled our part.  No, we are to listen.  We are to think.  If we do not think as we read it is hard to see how the Holy Spirit can speak to us.

As Spirit filled believers we are to listen to the “still small voice” of the Holy Spirit.  I am not sure where that phrase comes from but I have heard preachers use it for years.  I did searches of both the KJV and NASB and did not find it, but I like it.  It reminds me that in any situation the Holy Spirit is trying to speak to me.  I don’t know about you but in my life the Holy Spirit rarely shouts.  I hear Him better when I want to hear Him. 

As part of the Body of Christ we are to listen to the voices of other believers.  God has appointed people to teach and preach.  After being careful who we are listening to, we need to pay attention to what they have to say.  Obviously this means being a part of public worship.  I also find that my time in the car is more productive since I moved up to an I-pod.  I can down load the preaching of Alistar Begg and, forgive me for admitting it, Mark Driscoll, and every drive over 5 minutes can become a worship service or a lecture hall. 

If these sources “speak” (1696) to you, you will be stronger in the Lord.  But only if you listen.  Wisdom will speak of “excellent things” (noble things NASB) (5057).  This word usually means a leader, a prince, a ruler.  Who is the most noble of leaders?  Jesus.  Wisdom will always bring us to Him in some way.  If we listen and respond we glorify Him and bring about His will.

So.  Keep up the listening.  Look for more opportunities.  Let Him give you the directions you need to be a force of righteousness in a wicked world.