Are You a Good Listener?
Are you a good listener? ... How do you know for sure?
Jesus said, "Consider carefully what you hear. With the measure you use, it will be measured to you—and even more.” (Mark 4:24). This is a strong statement, reminding us that as we evaluate others by what they say, we too will be evaluated—by God, in an even deeper way.
This challenges me to listen with grace. I don’t want to judge or jump to conclusions; instead, I want to believe the best about the person speaking. I want to apply faith and God’s grace to what I hear, offering kindness to the one sharing their message. Why? Because that’s how I want others to listen to me—and more importantly, it’s the kind of listening God blesses.
James 1:19 encourages us to be “quick to listen, slow to speak.” This means truly processing what we hear before reacting, offering support over judgment, and receiving what’s good to put it into practice. God promises to bless this...
Is Your Love Prophetic?
Jesus said that in the last days the love of most people will grow cold. Is your love cold or hot
with the presence and purposes of God? Real love is focused and intentional. It is focused on
another or others. It is intentional in that it is expressed – it is an active verb. You can tell if you
are expressing this kind of love, they will experience it and others will see it. Real love is
demonstrative. Its deepest source and inspiration comes from God.
“God is love.” (1 John 4:8) Love is the expression of His essence – and it is His motivation for
creation. His creation expresses His love and shares His love. As we experience love, walk in
love and act lovingly, we bare His image in this world. Let’s look at three clear, yet counter-
cultural expressions of love. This kind of love is a prophetic sign in our day. It points to a
greater source and purpose than ourselves.
“Be devoted to one another...
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