We all have selective hearing
Fess up, we all have selective hearing, listening only when we think it benefits us. By their our teen years, we have truly perfected this skill, especially now with iPhones and other gadgets to blame. Senior citizens masterfully model and teach selective hearing skills to their grandchildren. Thus this skill is wonderfully preserved through every generation!
In the Gospels, Jesus speaks of those who have “ears to hear” at the end of a difficult saying or parable (e.g., Matthew 11:15; Mark 4:9, 23) Jesus says, “He who has ears, let him hear.”
How selective has your hearing been? We aren’t just talking about His call to you for salvation, but also the ongoing call to grow with Him and do His will every day. Do you have ears that hear? Will you answer His call? Or do you only hear what is easy and painless for you, the things that require minimal sacrifice?
”Do I have ears that hear?”
If we are not responding well and enjoying the abundant life Jesus promised and died for, then we are not hearing Him correctly. Today, ask yourself the question, “What is interfering with me from hearing God’s calling today? — fear, pride, busyness — hurts, lack of forgiveness, guilt — lack of contentment, entitlement to more, my need for ________? You fill in the blank.
How has holding on to these been working for you?
Who is “he who has ears”? The simple answer: All people who have been or are being given the words of God. We must “Listen up! Pay close attention!”
Jesus’ simple request is that we use our God-given faculties (eyes to see, ears to hear) to tune in to His words. Seeking God’s truth takes energy and focus; it takes a willingness to be challenged and changed. While the way of God’s truth is not the most convenient or fun path to take, we can be assured that it is the best one.
Editor’s note: The Rev. Dr. Scott Stewart is the pastor of Pea Ridge United Methodist Church and Brightwater Methodist Church. The opinions expressed are those of the writer. He can be contacted at revjstewart@gmail.com or 479-659-9519.