Listen

In last month’s post, I mentioned the word “imagine” as my potential focus word for 2024. I also shared that God had impressed another word upon my heart. As I’ve continued to pray regarding the other word “listen,” the more it stands out to me. I believe “listen” is the word the Lord wants me to prioritize this year.

According to the Merriam-Webster online dictionary, there are three definitions for the verb listen:

1.     to pay attention to sound (listen to music)

2.     to hear something with thoughtful attention: give consideration
(listen to a plea)

3.     to be alert to catch an expected sound (listen for his step)

I do fine with number one—especially now that I have hearing aids! But I need to work on numbers two and three.

Do I always listen to hear with thoughtful attention? Or am I concerned with how to respond. Maybe my mind is elsewhere, and I hear the speaker, but not well enough to fully grasp their words. To become more attentive and acknowledge others with the consideration they deserve, I need to focus on number two.

To answer before listening—that is folly and shame.
Proverbs 18:13, NIV

But my key priority is number three—to be alert to catch an expected sound. I love that! I want my spiritual ears to be open, to hear the Lord call my name and speak to my heart.

Not an unexpected sound, but an expected one. I expect to hear from the Lord through His Word, and to listen in my spirit to what He says to me personally and follow through in obedience.

Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves.
Do what it says.
James 1:22, NIV

To know the Lord better and draw closer to Him, I’ll ask Him to quiet my mind, listen for the Holy Spirit to speak to my heart, and seek to do His will.

You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.
Jeremiah 29:13, NIV

This year, I also have a theme song: “I’m Listening” by Chris McClarney (link below).

I hope to not only give others my thoughtful attention but also to give my undivided attention to the Lord, immersing myself in His presence. To listen for His expected voice, and to pursue Him with my whole heart.

Blessings to you as you pursue Him in 2024!

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Listen Definition & Meaning - Merriam-Webster

Check out Chris McClarney’s song on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ef52AmdVwYI

Photo by Abby Boggier—Unsplash

Imagine

Do you have a word for the new year? A verse for the year? I’m still praying about mine.

Last year my word was courage, and my verse was Joshua 1:9.

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage;
do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God
is with you wherever you go.
NKJV

Each year I take a quiz offered by DaySpring before I decide upon my word of the year, although I usually select something else. In late December, after I answered seven questions on their website, they reported my word was imagine.

Imagine? At first, this word bothered me. Sounded selfish. Imagine big things, fame, and fortune. Imagine traveling anywhere in the world. Imagine having anything you’ve ever wanted, and it’s yours. As a person who struggles with selfishness, I said no to this as my word for the year.

But then, when I read this word in Scripture, I decided imagine may be a great word for the new year.

Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us.
Ephesians 3:20, NIV 

God’s voice is glorious in the thunder. We can’t even imagine
the greatness of his power.
Job 37:5, NLT 

God can do anything through us. Exceedingly, abundantly, more than we ask or think. We only need to be willing. Willing for Him to use us in ways we never thought possible. With His power at work within us.

As Christians, I believe it is good to think big, pray big, and ask big. The Holy Spirit resides in us and gives us the power to do whatever God has called us to do.

This word is not about naming it and claiming it. It’s trusting God for all He wants to accomplish through us. Fulfilling His purpose in our lives. Whatever that is.

But God has placed another word on my heart. I’ll continue to pray and seek Him regarding my word for 2024.

Please share your word or verse if you have one.

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What’s Your Word? (dayspring.com)

Photo by Constant Loubier - Unsplash