Watching the movie Brave the other night reminded me of how important listening is in relationships. If we just talk at each other and never listen, we miss what the other person needs and who they are.
It’s the same with our relationship with God. We can talk at God all day but if we don’t listen for his response we will never know or understand him. Its in the listening that we really learn his character, his love and even his sense of humor. Often we are taught do this or say that and God will be pleased. But what if we just asked him what he wants. It may be simpler then we realize. It may to to smile at someone or had them some water. Or it may even be a simple as him asking us to just stop for a moment and enjoy his presence.
The more I seek God and ask him to share his interpretation of his word with me the simpler it is. Love God, love others. But we can’t skip the first part. Loving God is spending time with him. Even if it’s as simple as sitting in his presence and neither of you saying anything. Listening is the key to intimacy with God. So ask him what he wants and trust that no matter how small it seems it’s what is best for you and that all he wants. For his kids to feel loved and cared for.