Jesus spoke clearly to the crowds and to the disciples. He laid out choices that people make. It is either to hear something and to act upon it… or to not even listen and then to miss out on the valuable life-giving words which were spoken. The rewards for listening are that you will be given understanding to what you have heard. His Words are truly life-changing. That is why we see such dramatic changes in those who have accepted Christ. His love makes a huge impact… if we allow ourselves to follow what He has commanded us to do… “Love one another”. Those three words could change the world!
Please plan to extend this verse to family, friends, and co-workers for His kingdom. Ask if they have ever been day-dreaming during a conversation or a speech. Ask if they were suddenly called upon and they had no idea what was being said or asked. See how they answer. For many in this world, they are truly daydreaming and not listening for the Word of God. The more they chase after this world’s ideals and values, the less time and interest they have for seeking the blessings and salvation from God. We need to help give a ‘wakeup call’ to those people. Keep at it. Share His love often. It is life-or-death for them. Always Take Time For God’s Word© daily or as you hear a familiar voice or at 8:18 am or pm. You may want to add this verse to Tasks on your phone. Set it for 8:18 am with a title of, “So pay attention…” Copy the whole verse into the notes or description so that you will have it to look at, if needed. Tasks are those things that we know we should do. If we write them down… if we remind ourselves about them… then we are much more likely to do them. We need to be active ‘listeners’ when we study God’s Word so that we hear the instruction which He has for us. These are not just words. These are caring messages meant to guide us, inspire us, comfort us, and so much more. Ask for wisdom and understanding… and He will give it to you!
Our prayers now reach out to all the youth pastors and youth leaders in our fellowship groups and churches. With ‘shelter-in-place’ orders still in effect in many areas, the outreach to our youth is even more challenging. That is why they need our extra prayers. Encourage them. Support them. Let them know that you pray for them. Help them to stay in touch with our youth. Find ways to still have regular communications with all the youth in the church. We do not want this generation to miss out on the great love of Jesus and all that He has planned for them. Stay blessed always… and in ALL ways. Pass it on to many others by stating the clear love of Christ and His call to everyone to come to know Him as Lord.
