Capacity to Listen

    When you have the skills to really listen, you have the capacity to make real impact in the world around you.  It tells people that you really care.  Listening isn't about money, power, or getting the upper hand.  It is about really communicating and being transparent.  

    You can be unforgettable (famous), have money, popularity, and notoriety, but it doesn't matter.  If you don't listen, then it is all one sided.  You expect people to be there for you, listen to you, support you, but you don't want to give that in return.  It won't last very long.  People will realize you don't care and will stop listening.  It shows that you don't listen to God.

    If you want to be the salt and light in the world, then you need to learn how to listen.  It is the only way to really get people's attention.  If you really listen, then people notice because it is so rare that people take time to stop and just listen to another person.

    If you have the ability to really listen, then it is revealed in your lifestyle.  If you are listening to God, then everything about you changes.  It enables you to listen and understand what other people are trying to communicate even if they don't even know how to communicate it.  The ability to listen like this is a part of the Christian walk.

    Take time to grow in your relationship with God and become a mature Christian.  When you do, you will shine for God.  You understand that your standing out is not about you, but God's glory.  Be courageous in your Christian walk because people are watching.  If you aren't courageous it gives the message that God is not there and that is a lie.  We have to live boldly for God.

    Part of listening is your testimony.  It sends a message even if you don't say much or anything at all.  It is a part of your lifestyle or it isn't.  Being a Christian has it's rights, but it is a privilege that should not be taken for granted.  You either live your life for God (listening and following) or you do not.  You need to see the difference and understand to really know what a Christian is.

    A testimony is showing or telling the world how God has impacted your life.  It is more than just the salvation story.  If your story ends there and years go by without you developing a relationship with God on His terms, then it may be time to reevaluate your salvation.  

    It is time to get on the right page and start listening to Him because your testimony is about how he impacts your life daily, not just once.  It is told through your character, conduct, and conversations.   We all have our part.  Listen to the instructions on how to live it to the best of our ability.

Deuteronomy 1:16-18, Psalm 89:1-4, Matthew 13:13-15, & 1 Corinthians 12:14-17