“One of them was Lydia from Thyatira, a merchant of expensive purple cloth. She was a worshiper of God. As she listened to us, the Lord opened her heart, and she accepted what Paul was saying.” Acts 16:14 NLT
Training classes for dogs rely on the owner’s ability to help the animal focus and respond with predictable behavior. In puppy classes with Famous, I learned to do this with a loud “clicker” and with treats. When Famous listened to my voice or followed my hand signals, I would simply click and treat. I was amazed how quickly he could learn “tricks” even in a store filled with other barking and whining dogs.
There is a lesson here for all of us. We cannot worship God without listening to Him. This involves more than hearing the preached words of a sermon. It involves opening the heart and examining the emotions and motivations that drive our responses. It also involves focusing on His voice amidst the din of our everyday lives. Our reward will be a more spiritual life blessed with the fruits of the Holy Spirit.
Open my heart, Lord, and help me to listen for your voice.
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