Who are you listening to? John 14:26

In our electronic generation of Instant Messaging, Facebook, Emails and Tweeter we seem to be listening for friends and family continually to contact us. Some studies have found that people check their cell phones every six minutes. I confess I just heard that familiar tone, “I’ve got mail” my urge is to run and see what amazing communication has come to me is overwhelming.

Our society has become addicted to electronics? We love gadgets. Don’t misunderstood me, the ability to communicate instantly is wonderful, in addition to staying in contact with friends and family it serves as a solid foundation for sharing Christ, but are we devoting time to listen to God as faithfully as we do to our favorite electronic device? “Our ears are tuned to whatever holds our hearts and minds.” (Stanley 2015, InTouch Ministries) God has been speaking to us since creation. In the Old Testament He spoke through the prophets. In the New Testament He spoke through His Son (Heb.

1:1-2). Today, He speaks to us through the Holy Spirit, (John 16:13) If the world is our focus, we shall hear only its message.

If we wish our hearts and minds to be set on Christ we must comment and make time to meditate and listen to His guidance and obey.

The reasons people do not listen to God cannot be counted but here are a few reasons that come to mind.

First, they don’t have a relationship with Him.

The Lord calls all to salvation, those who reject Him are unable to hear His voice.

Second, when we focus on the message of the world God’s Word is snuffed out. Instead, of storing up our treasures in Christ we seek the things of this world, retirement and a strong portfolio.

Jesus said, “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven,” (Matthew 6:19-21 ESV). Third, anger at God will prevent people from hearing God’s voice. People ask, why does God allow this hardship on our family or others?

Friend, there is no place in the Bible that promises bad things will not happen to people even Christians.

There are more predictions in Scripture of a struggle on earth for the believer than there is gain and success.

Christians must hold to the promise that this life is merely a vapor, a mist that will soon disappear and a glorious eternity awaits us. There are preachers that would teach that material wealth and triumphs will come in exchange for faith. This is not biblical and they are false prophets teaching heresy.

Fourth, “ For false christs and false prophets will arise and perform great signs and wonders, so as to lead astray, if possible, even the elect”(Matthew 24:24 ESV). People are searching for answers today. Television, internet and book shelves, are filled with the words of men and women who would lead people away from Christ. Secular humanists believe that this is the only life of which we have knowledge and that we owe it to ourselves and others to make it the best life possible for ourselves and all with whom we share this fragile planet. They believe there is no evidence for supernatural causes of, or remedies for, humankind's condition and mankind can solve their own problems. This is heresy that leads to hell.

There is only one solution to the void in mankind’s life and that is Christ our Savior who covers our sins with His blood.

Finally, some believers are closed minded and rebellious. They fear that God will require them to do something they do not have the ability to do. If this is you take heart, God gives strength to His saints. “O you who love the Lord, hate evil! He preserves the lives of his saints; he delivers them from the hand of the wicked” (Psalm 97:10) I will close with an invitation to the believer, the unchurched and nonbeliever. To the believer, step away from this busy world, turn off the phone, go to that special place read the Word of God (Heb. 12:2) and listen to your Father, strengthen your relationship. I assure you, God will bless your heart and life. If you are unchurched, return to fellowship (Heb.

10:24-25) and feel the love of fellow believers again. To the nonbeliever; Friend I know you are seeking answers, I have been where you are right this moment. God has brought you to this place to read these words. Turn to God where you will find forgiveness and grace.

Until next time, may God’s might hand cover and protect you.