Hearing from God

Courtesy of Stock Exchange

It’s almost football season again. I admit I struggle with my fanaticism when it comes to football. I have to be intentional about how much time, thought, and energy goes into the season. I have my favorite teams and players like many people, but I study football. So, as you might guess, sometimes my passion for football gets in the way of other things.

One of the things it gets in the way of is “hearing”. Imagine the scene with me for a moment: The football game is on and I am studying intensely. Becky comes into the room and begins talking to me. I recognize she is present and I “hear” something, but I am not really listening because of my focus on the game. I say “ok” or something like that and continue watching the game. A little later in the day I vaguely remember that I said “ok” to something, but cannot remember what it is. I look around for the obvious stuff – trash taken out, clean the kitchen, etc. – and hope that those suffice. Sometimes that works. Usually it doesn’t. How do I know? I know because Becky will say, “Did you hear what I said earlier about ____________ ?” It is then that I sheepishly have to admit, “No.”

Courtesy of Stock Exchange

I’m learning that to hear my wife during a game I have to stop the game, turn and face her, and engage in active listening. It’s hard to do sometimes – especially when the Cowboys are about to score a touchdown. However, I’ve learned it’s worth it (although the thought just crossed my mind that is a good reason to have Tivo™).

I believe that many of our conversations with God are like this too. We are so focused on our “stuff” that we don’t hear the specific words that God wants to share with us. Our hearts and minds are distracted by all the other voices. It takes effort to put aside the distractions of life to hear from God. However, I guarantee that it is worth it.

What distracts you from hearing from God? When are you most available to hear from God?

P.S. I don’t have N.F.L. Sunday Ticket because that would only feed the hunger. I am tempted, but have refrained so far.