From the very beginning of the human race, the art of listening has played an integral role in our learning process.
Adam walked in the Garden of Eden and undoubtedly listened to God’s instruction on how to care for His creation.
And sadly, Eve got into a dialogue with the Serpent. She listened to his half-truths and fell for his scheme.
The written word would not follow for centuries with Moses transcribing the Pentateuch — the first five books of Scripture.
Before the Great Flood, we learn of those who followed the lineage of Adam and Eve through their son, Seth.
In Genesis 5 we’re briefly introduced to Enoch who at 65, commenced walking with God for the next 300 years. Then Enoch was abruptly taken up to Heaven never facing earthly death.
Yes, it’s hard to imagine anyone walking and obviously talking to God as well for so many years.
No, I’m not about to tell you that I’ve been literally walking and talking to God for the past 40-plus years since becoming a follower of Christ!
But I can tell you that I’ve been drawing closer to my Heavenly Father day by day through the ancient art of listening.
Let me explain: I’ve been blessed with excellent teachers from the pulpit as well as laymen who have graciously spent time answering my many questions about God’s Word.
Actually, my listening skills were first tested in a ninth-grade advanced U.S. History class. Our teacher challenged us to not take notes but simply intently listen to his every word.
To my amazement I aced the course and learned and retained more than I would have by taking copious notes.
Then in my early 30s I was blessed to work under a consummate human resources professional. Harry Cochrane patiently taught me to intently listen to what others were saying.
I had a terrible tendency of responding before the other person had completed their thoughts. After doing this to my boss on numerous occasions, I finally got it.
That’s the art of listening in a nutshell.
Let’s listen to the words of the Prophet Jeremiah: “… but I gave them this command: Obey me and I will be your God and you will be my people. Walk in all the ways that I command you that it may go well with you.”
We aren’t blessed with prophets these days, but we are extremely blessed to have God’s Holy Word available for study and reference as we go through many trials.
And there is much godly counsel available. All we must do is simply ask and listen.
The Apostle John presents many spiritual truths in his short letters sent to the first-century Christian church while exiled on the Isle of Patmos.
He talks about those who speak the truth and those who speak worldly platitudes, wary of those who speak falsehood.
Listen intently with the discernment of the Holy Spirit and don’t let the Evil One lead you astray.