Joshua said to the children of Israel, “Come here, and hear the words of the LORD your God.”
–Joshua 3:9
The children of Israel were strangers in a strange land.
Joshua, their new leader, wanted them to believe that God was leading them as He had promised. But before they could believe God’s promises, first they had to hear them.
The people prepared themselves to listen to God. They sanctified themselves, making sure they were clean, attentive, and ready to hear what He had to say.
Then, when God spoke, they listened. They followed God’s instructions and, as a result, God worked a mighty miracle on their behalf (read Joshua 3 for the whole exciting story)!
Often, the world makes it difficult for us to hear what God has to say to us. He may be willing to do great things on our behalf, but if we don’t take the time to clean up our acts, to pay attention to the instruction He has already given, and to listen to the Holy Spirit’s whispers, we lose out.
Consider taking some time and seeking Him. Come close. Prepare your heart to hear God’s message. Listen. Hear what He has to say. He is speaking to you.
Prayer
Loving Lord, I am here. Please come here, too. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit. I want to feel Your presence near me. Keep me close to You. Let me hear what You are trying to say to me. I promise to listen. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.
Reflection
How can I prepare to hear what God has to say to me? How might listening to God’s words affect my life?