So many of us–both those of us who regularly study the Bible and those of us who don’t-want to understand how to hear from God.
The most important component of hearing from our Lord and Creator is the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. What does that mean, indwelling? It means we have invited Jesus Christ to live in us, individually. Classic John 3:16 stuff. Because God loves us so much, He doesn’t want any of us to be lost. Not eternally lost and not lost in any way before we reach eternity.
Jesus said ‘I have come that they might have life, and have it to the full’ (John 10:10). Part of that full life is knowing God’s will and trusting His best for our life. That’s a BIG part. But after we do that, how do we UNCOVER His best for our life? Of course, we regularly read the Bible, where God laid out His ways and His great love for us. We see there the unfolding of an amazing plan, from Genesis to Revelation, that is so completely sewn together and so beautifully laid out that it is undeniable. God so loves the world…and He so loves me.
But there are times when we all need more specific instruction, right? Is this the right life mate for me? Should I have this surgery? Should I take this job? None of those answers are going to be specifically found in scripture, because they are very particular to our life and this moment in time. Journey with us as we uncover how to hear God and know His best for our life.
The friends for this series were Leigh Ann, Barb, Cassie and Holly.
In Part Two we will learn about the practice of Lectio Divina and how to use this tool to listen to God in a very personal and specific way. Lectio Divina is a fancy way of saying we should read God’s word in a listening way. Specifically translated, it means ‘Divine Reading’ which of course means that God will be in the process. There are three main parts to this practice: read, listen, respond. It brings to mind a favorite verse: ‘Be still and know that I am God.” (Psalm 46:10)
This is a broadcast you might want to bookmark and listen to again. It’s a practice that takes practice! Please download the instructions in the homework, and work on it. We have found this practice to be somewhat miraculous in the way it opens up God’s Word to us.
I personally (Holly) have taught this practice of Lectio Divina on many occasions, at Bible studies, on weekend retreats and in lecture series. I have never found it to fail anyone who has done it with me. Never. God promises us He is in His Word always, so we know that when we earnestly seek Him, He will be found. Isaiah 55:11 says “…so is my word that goes out from my mouth; it will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.”
Comments or questions? Insights from your own personal study time? Please share! We love to hear from you. Fill up that comment box below!
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