LEAN HARD AND LISTEN

I try to begin every day with my glass half full. Some days are filled with headwinds that make it more difficult; some days are filled with tailwinds that make it easier. But most days are filled with a combination of both that require masterful navigation of the terrain. And there is nothing we can do about it on our own. Fortunately, we have the King of Kings right by our side to get us where we NEED to go every moment of every day.

These days, our lives are filled with so much noise and distraction that it is difficult for me to actually listen. Oh, I hear a ton of stuff, but the art of listening becomes a challenge when navigating my day. When you hear, you simply perceive or become aware of by the ear. Listening is not just hearing. Listening means taking a vigorous interest in what is being told to us. I like the way the poet Alice Duer Miller puts it. “You can listen like a blank wall or like a splendid auditorium where every sound comes back fuller and richer.” Then, once we listen, we can understand and assign meaning to the messages received.

I gotta admit that I am not a good listener. But, I will be the first to literally say, “I was not listening,” time and time again throughout my day. When I hear something or someone, I am often distracted by something else either in my mind or in the environment. I guess I’m leaning on my own understanding and instinctually “overthinking” for no reason.

As I intentionally try to grow closer to God and learn not to lean on my own understanding, things do become clearer. After all, that’s what is taught in Proverbs 3:5-6. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.”

Lean into it… Man, that’s a good one. What exactly does it mean to lean into it? For me, it falls into that “simple but not easy” category. By definition, it means to embrace and wholeheartedly experience fully; to take on and embrace something. When dealing with something difficult or unpleasant, it is through determination and perseverance while finding a way to benefit and grow from it. As Paul puts it in Romans 5:1-4, “Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.” Now check out verses 3-4. “And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope.” Those four verses are simply amazing and pretty much cover a full day in the life. Enjoy the days when trials and tribulations are absent and our days are filled with tailwinds of peace and joy through God’s grace. And keep moving in God’s light when headwinds arise while producing perseverance, character, and hope. And with this, make sure to be a conduit and share your journey with others along the way.

What I have found is that, like any relationship or craft we try to improve upon, we have to “put in work” and be obedient. It is my hope that you, too, will “put in work” through bible study, prayer, and fellowship to hone your skills and become closer to God every day. This will help us listen better, increase our faith and enable us to enjoy every moment as it is intended.

Everyone’s journey is important, and every journey is yours alone. And it is okay to enjoy those days when all is well and fueled by tailwinds. This is an excellent opportunity to lean into God and thank Him. He is there to lean into at all times in all circumstances. So it is my prayer that we all grow closer and rely more on our King of Kings every day as our relationship grows deeper and more meaningful.

Just keep it simple and “make the ask.” He is always happy to help. Then, listen and don’t just hear. If you don’t completely understand, meditate on it and unpack what He is saying to you. Things will become more and more clear as you get closer and closer to Him. One thing I’ve learned over the years is you can never get too close to God. He really likes that.

Until next time,

Be blessable and much love,

Larry

This just in… As I was finishing up this article, I received the perfect text at the perfect time from my church, Calvary Aurora, on 10/31/22 @ 8 AM.

“When God is at work, you can expect growth internally and externally. God is the master discipler in your life, and you will grow in Him.”

Once again, “He’s a funny guy,” and I love him with all my heart, all my soul, and all my mind.