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Listen while you read: "Spirit Of God Descend"1 (Lyrics) |
I enjoy listening to non-fiction books, daily devotionals, and Bible Gateway. I usually close my eyes while I listen to the words being read to me. Many years ago, I learned the benefits of listening to God's Word anytime and anywhere.
Psalm 119:11 – I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you. (NIV)
On our long yearly road trips to the American south, it gives me immense pleasure to be able to take my Bible and Bible Gateway along for the ride. I listen while we cruise through the mountains and countryside along the scenic American Interstate Highway 75, a 1,435 mile (2,310 kilometre) journey which takes about 24 hours one way, including one overnight stop.
Whether I am the driver or the passenger, I listen to Bible Gateway hands-free on my phone or on my tablet as our car eats up the miles. I find it relaxing and comforting knowing that we can have God's Word surrounding us in the car on the trip. Although I have read parts of the Bible several times, I usually start each journey there and back at the beginning — Genesis — and finish my listening at the end of the trip.
Matthew 11:15 – He who has ears, let him hear. (NIV)
Recently, I shared with someone that I listened to the daily devotionals. The response was, "Thank you, Yvonne. That's interesting that you listen to the devotionals instead of reading them." I replied, "I listen to the devotionals, then I read them right after." I love listening to daily devotionals and to Bible Gateway. I believe that I developed my love for storytelling because I love to listen to stories being read to me. God wants us to connect with Him whether we listen or read His Word.
God wants us to be better listeners. James, Jesus' brother, writes, "My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak" (James 1:19a NIV). Isaiah records God's words: "Listen, listen to me; … Give ear and come to me; hear me, that your soul may live." (Isaiah 55:2b,3a NIV)
The Word of God is powerful. "They are not just idle words for you — they are your life." (Deuteronomy 32:47a NIV)
Psalm 119:130 – The unfolding of your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple. (NIV)
Listening to and reading God's Word daily will keep us on the right path, and in a continuous relationship with Him and everyone around us.
Are you a good listener? Try listening to the daily devotionals or to the Bible on Bible Gateway. Listen with your ears — and hear with your heart. It is fun!
Prayer: Gracious God, thank You for giving us ears and hearts to hear You, and the ability to understand Your instructions as they are written in the Scriptures. It is in Jesus' precious name that we pray. Amen!
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Amen, Yvonne.
Thank- you!
Thank you for sharing this encouraging devotional with us. To God be the glory! Blessings.
Listening to the daily devotionals brings comfort and hope in these challenging times – Thank you.
Thank you, Yvonne. I think that “someone” was me! I also listen to the Bible Gateway devotionals and enjoy the variety of people that speak.
Thank you, Yvonne, for another inspiring devotion. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family now as you celebrate your mother’s life and your faith in Christ’s redeeming love.
Dear Yvonne,
Thanks for a very interesting devotional today.
I have never tried listening to the devotionals, but I do love to read them. I may have to try listening someday.
May God bless your day.
Thanks, Yvonne, for your devotional today and reminding us how important it is to truly digest God’s word. There are times that I find I have to read and reread certain passages to really absorb the meaning. Somehow, I hadn’t known about this “Bible Gateway” you mentioned and will look into it.
Blessings for these writings you prepare and share.
Thank you for your listening and reading. I do more reading than listening and have been blessed with the Daily Lectionary Readings since about 1991 when I received the Mission Year Book and for the past years on my computer. Also, many years ago I have read 5 Psalms and 1 Proverb every day starting at the beginning of each month. However a person can hear it and read it is truly a blessing.