Listening To Christ

Listening to Christ || Romans 10:17 || Dr. LaRita Primrose

“If anyone has ears to hear, let him hear."
 
This phrase is a call to attention, emphasizing the importance of spiritual perception over mere physical hearing. In biblical times, having "ears to hear" was a metaphor for being open and receptive to God's message. During this Lenten season, Christ has a Word for each of us. Let us listen to Him, individually and corporately.

Listening to Christ is a way to seek wisdom, guidance, and a deeper connection with a life of love, purpose, and faith. Listening to Christ, whether it be through scripture, sermons, prayer, or song can be a profound and inspiring experience. It often brings comfort, guidance, and a sense of connection to something greater.
 
Romans 10:17, the scripture for today says, "So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God." This verse highlights that hearing from Christ is connected to immersing oneself in the Word of God. It suggests that faith grows through attentiveness to God’s message, as in Scripture.

Practically, hearing and listening to Christ involves engaging with the Bible and cultivating receptivity. It means allowing God’s Word to guide our thoughts, shape our actions, and speak to our hearts. Many people find that prayer, meditation on Scripture, and being quiet before God are essential practices to truly being able to "listen."

Listening and hearing may seem similar, but they are different in how we engage with and process sound.

Hearing is Passive.

• You hear someone talking in the background during a meeting but cannot recall what they said since your focus was not on them.
  
  

Listening is Active.

• A friend is sharing their feelings about a tough day, and you maintain eye contact, nod, and ask follow-up questions to show you are engaged.
  
  

Why listen to Christ?

• Guidance in Life: Christ’s teachings provide clarity and direction for how to navigate challenges, make decisions, and live with integrity.
• Inner Peace and Comfort: His words often bring a sense of calm, hope, and reassurance in moments of doubt, worry, or hardship.
• Spiritual Growth: Listening to Christ helps deepen one's relationship with God and grow in spiritual maturity, cultivating virtues like patience, kindness, and humility.
• Purpose and Meaning: His teachings inspire a life centered on love, service, and compassion, giving purpose and meaning to daily actions.
• Community and Connection: Christ’s message often calls people to join in fellowship and love, building supportive, faith-based communities.
• Hope and Redemption: His promise of grace, forgiveness, and eternal life resonates deeply with those seeking renewal and hope.

How to Listen

• Prayer and Meditation: Spend time in prayer, being still and open to receiving His guidance. Silent reflection can create space for insight and peace.
• Studying Scripture: The Bible is a central way to hear His words. Reading and reflecting on passages can reveal lessons, encouragement, and direction.
• Worship and Music: Many feel closer to Christ through worship songs or hymns that resonate with their faith.
• Seeking Guidance Through Others: Sometimes Christ’s voice is heard through pastors, spiritual mentors, or friends who offer wisdom rooted in love and truth.
• Observing Daily Life: Christ speaks through everyday moments—through acts of kindness, the beauty of nature, or the still, small voice that nudges you toward love and compassion.
• Listening in Community: Joining a fellowship or Bible study group can help you hear Christ through shared reflections and discussions.

During this Lenten Season Listen, Hear, React to Christ:
 
Listen-Be involved intentionally, spiritually, and physically!
Hear God’s Word- Be attentive, emphasize on each word!
React- Be obedient and follow His lead. God speaks in several ways, including Scripture, the church, and circumstances.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, I seek Your voice amidst the noise of this world. Open our ears to listen and our hearts to fully understand Your teachings. Quiet our restless thoughts so we may hear You clearly and guide us to trust in Your wisdom. Grant us the humility to follow, the patience to wait for Your direction, and the courage to act in faith. Thank You for speaking to us, in Jesus’ name. Amen.