2 Timothy 2:20-21
Years ago, God temporarily allowed me to have such physical ailments that I could do nothing but lie in bed. At first, this felt frustrating, but eventually I began to realize His plan for this trial. Life had become too busy for me to hear something the Lord needed to tell me. He certainly managed to get my attention by stilling my physical body!
After leading us to salvation, God still has work to do in our lives. If we listen carefully, we’ll be able to hear our Father directing us in three ways.
First, the Lord calls us to sanctification, which means being set apart by Him and for Him. Through His Spirit, He continually reminds us to use His power and resources so we can obey and live righteously.
Second, He calls us to service. God has planned good works for us to accomplish (Eph. 2:10); He gives us abilities, time, and resources for that purpose.
Third, He calls us to accountability. Romans 14:12 teaches that one day we all will “give an account” of how we used the resources God placed at our disposal. This report will be based on two factors: the truth we’ve heard and the opportunities that were available. So we should be sure to listen daily as our heavenly Father reminds us to utilize everything we have for His glory.
Has life become so hectic that God’s voice is inaudible? Foster your own ability to listen by spending time in the Word and by waiting for answers when you pray. And teach your children to tune in so they can hear Him too. What a waste it would be to tackle life without guidance from above.
Used with Permission
