Have you ever wondered if God is trying to teach you something or guide you in some way? Or have you ever questioned what being attentive to God looks like?
While there are some whom God has given prophetic giftings, that does not mean that they are the only ones that God will speak to and grant guidance. God speaks to all of us. But, it may not be as clear or as easy as we think. We aren’t supposed to wait around for the heavens to part and the voice of God to speak to us- That is what we read in Mark 1:11 when God validates His son right after Jesus’ Baptism. Instead we are going to jump down three verses and look at the beginning of Jesus’ ministry to people similar to us.
We read in Mark 1:14-15,
“14 After John was put in prison, Jesus went into Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God.
15 “The time has come,” he said. ‘The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!’”
In verse fifteen when it says “the time has come” this refers to kairos time which depicts a critical moment in our life. It is a moment that captures your attention. Oftentimes these are moments when God is near to us. He doesn’t force us to observe what He is doing, but if we turn our attention towards Him, He will give us a new direction. Hearing God starts by identifying these moments. We then begin to pursue Him by prayerfully asking ourselves three questions:
● What is catching my attention?
● What is God trying to say to me?
● And what does God want me to do about it?
This process starts with repentance. Sometimes repentance is a 180 degree turn, but often it is just a small re-adjustment as we follow Christ. We don’t do this haphazardly. We observe what is getting our attention, reflect on what God is trying to say to us, and discuss with others to see if they confirm that belief.
Our scripture then instructs us to believe the good news. Not only do we need to listen to God, but we need to believe what He is telling us and what others are confirming. Belief also requires action. As we identify what God wants us to do about that belief we then need to put forth steps into doing it; plan, account, act.
Plan what you are going to do.
Get someone as a support and accountability.
Then act.
As we act, we make that movement into a new direction God has for our life.
Challenge: Reflect on a past season of life or experience that God used to direct you. Then consider how many of these things happened during that journey unbeknownst to you.
Question: How will knowing this method help you in a present or future situation?
Carrollton First UMC (Yellow Brick Church & The Bridge) We are 1 Church in 2 Locations offering 3 Worship Opportunities
Our mailing address is:
253 South Lisbon Street, Carrollton, OH 44615
