Listening - Lori Houskamp

While Pastor Nate continues on his break, I encourage all of us to lean into opportunities afforded by summer’s change of pace. Schedule (or unschedule) your summer to be a season with margin to listen to God. In Psalm 46:10 we read, “Be still and know that I am God.” Listen to the lapping of waves and cast your cares on our Creator. Find peace in God’s presence as you walk through the woods. Allow a symphony of singing birds to move you to praise. Let the laughter of children remind you to be glad in the Lord. Allow the crackle of a campfire to fill you with joy.  Listen to nature sing and be refreshed. 

If you are following this month’s Bible reading plan and reading through Proverbs, you will encounter the word “listen” over twenty times. Proverbs encourages us to listen to God’s voice in His Word and in the wise counsel of others. Listening for God by Marilyn Hontz (2004) is a great book I am rereading this summer. I am again reminded how when we are still and listen for God, the Holy Spirit prompts us and specifically guides our actions. Listening is for every child of God. We were all created to live in a personal relationship with God, which includes both talking with and listening to Him. May we all be eager to listen.