HEAR From God
February 20, 2024
Our goal in reading the Word is more than checking a box - our goal is to hear from God. We must approach scripture with intentionality tuning our ears to hear from God.
Do you desire to get more out of reading the Word?
Our goal in reading the Word is more than checking a box - our goal is to hear from God. We must approach scripture with intentionality tuning our ears to hear from God.
These purposeful steps help us HEAR from God when reading His Word
- Highlight - What does the Word say?
- Explain - What does the Word mean?
- Apply - How can I apply the Word?
- Reflect - How can I dwell on the Word?
Notice these steps require reflection and action. James 1:22 says, "But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.” When we hear from God and do not do what He says, we deceive ourselves by thinking that knowledge is sufficient. But if we approach scripture with the goal of hearing from God and applying His words to our lives, we grow in our love for Him.
Before we can lead others, we must first lead ourselves.
- How are you doing at reading the Word to hear from God?
- Are you encouraging others in your group to read the Word?
- Starting this conversation with your group often leads to encouraging and supporting each other.
Want to start? Pick a time. Pick a place. Pick a passage.
- When will you read the Word - morning, noon, evening?
- Where will you read the Word - your kitchen, your office, your bedroom?
- What will you read - a Psalm, the Gospel of John, the Book of James? Pick a chapter to read a day. Or pick a chapter to read for a week - re-reading it every day for a week, to Highlight, Explain, Apply, and Reflect.
This takes more than having good intentions. This takes intentionality. Most things in life that matter take intentionality. This may seem overwhelming, but don’t be overwhelmed. Simply set aside 10-15 minutes to read the Word to hear from God. You will find it is more than worth it.
How will you have intentionality this week?