To Discern = To recognize or identify as separate and distinct. (Merriam Webster Dictionary)
These past few months have been off the charts full with a myriad of opportunities, situations, tasks, blessings, challenges and victories. I don't know about you but it seems that the more full life gets, the less clarity I have in recognizing each moment as a singular entity. Good, bad, or indifferent - we will all experience a million and more moments in a day that can set us either "on top of the heap" or" under the weight." Words are thrown in our direction, sailing towards us at lightning fast speed - drama and sensationalism are literally thrust upon us at every turn pulling at our emotions, attempting to force us to focus on something other than what we are meant to be focusing on... and when I try to "fix" things on my own or add my wagon to the drama train... I never feel secure - and always (yes there is that "absolute" word again) end up feeling spent, weakened, with a general feeling of "I am not enough". It is here that a wave of confusion will inevitably hit. How many times have we been outraged at a situation by what slim "facts" the world provides only to find out that there is more to the story? Or discouraged by what seems to be a hopeless case of unfair judgment? How do I discern what to believe?
This has been a challenge for me over the years - and especially with the "fullness" of these past few months. What should I know... where should my time and energy be spent? What do I allow my heart to be affected by? Basically... what is the answer to this question of "Whatcha' Listenin' To"?
Proverbs 18:15 (NIV) says " The Heart of the discerning acquires knowledge; the ears of the wise seek it out."
That word "Knowledge" could be translated "Truth". In another version (NLT) it states that "Intelligent people are always ready to learn. Their ears are open for knowledge."
There! That's it! That is exactly what I need... am I looking for TRUTH? Where do I find TRUTH to listen to? It isn't a secret - I need to be spending time with The Author of Truth. I need to be reading His Word.... which IS TRUTH. I need to be remembering what HE says about who I AM. I need to remember that He has placed a value on more lives than my own. I need to focus on The Truth that is John 3;16 "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only son that WHOSOEVER believes in Him will have eternal life." I need to focus on His love for the "Whosoever(s)" and listen for His TRUTH in walking that love out.
I need to listen for His TRUTH over the slander, pain, exhaustion, rejection, tainted facts, pride, shame and fear. I need to acquire that Truth and hold onto it... to really LISTEN... to really seek it out.... To be TEACHABLE...when I do - suddenly the storm stops. I am no longer staggering in apprehension - I am taking each step with confidence because I am walking in TRUTH. I am able to discern what is right and what isn't. What a challenge... so.. "Whatcha' Listenin' To?" There are more powerful truths that can build you up than lies that can tear you down... which one is the loudest in your life? Be ready to learn and listen to His Truth for you.
I am praying for His work to be done in our hearts - and that we will share what we learn with others - Hear and Listen... that we are able to walk and live in His peace and shine on For HIM!! Blessings!