Devotional: September 16-23, by Norm Kaneklides, Elder
Listening, Part 2
In our prayer and fasting devotion last week, we were encouraged by the fact that God desires to speak His truth into your life and shower you with his loving kindness. Today, I would like you to take some time to listen to God speaking directly to you.
Following is a great way to hear God’s voice (based on scripture) that I learned from Ken Helser. This is not just for adults, so if you have children, feel free to have them do this. Remember, in our devotion last week, Samuel was able to hear God even as a child.
When you are ready, find a quiet place and turn off any phones, TV’s, etc., making sure there will be no distractions. Get a notebook, paper, computer, or anything you like to use to take notes. You can even use a tape recorder. A younger child can just use crayons and paper.
1. Click on the following link, close your eyes, and listen to this 5 minute worship song (or just put some worship music on that will help you to tune in to the Lord): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U3GijrnfStk
2. Now let’s get into the word. Two weeks ago, our devotional reading of Matthew 6:25-32 encouraged us to renounce worry and trust God for everything. This Sunday God spoke to us through Pastor Steve’s vision of train cars going out with coal (worry) and coming in with grain (God’s goodness). Let’s read and meditate on Philippians 4:6-8. Verse 6 was the Kidmo memory verse this week:
“Do not be anxious (don’t worry) about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. — Philippians 4:6-8
3. Now get out your notebook (or whatever you brought to take notes). Think about what is your biggest concern today (something you might spend time worrying about). Just began to talk to the Lord about it and write down what you say to Him. Then ask Him (write that down too) what He would say to you about this.
4. Then stop talking and just listen to what comes to your mind and began writing that down. (If a child is doing this they can just draw a picture of what God shows them). Don’t stop to evaluate it, just write everything you hear.
5. After you have finished, take some time (now or later), to go over what you wrote down and try to discern what God was saying to you. If there is anything that does not sound like God or doesn’t line up with scripture, just erase/delete it.
6. Now, make sure to value what God has spoken to you. If He asked you to do something, choose to obey Him.
I pray God’s richest blessings on you today,
Norm Kaneklides, Elder
