MAR 30 / Sunday – Read Mark 4:21-24 / James 1:22
Overview: This game is based upon responding to what is heard, i.e. “listen up” if you want to win. And when Jesus says “listen up” he means for us to pay attention and do what he says.
31 / Mon – If you have ears to hear, listen | Read Mark 8:14-21
In the gospels, Jesus called people to not only hear but to really listen. These verses show how clueless Jesus’ closest followers were at times. Those who love Jesus should be the first to hear him and follow his teachings. When he says listen, he means don’t ignore but pay attention and then act on it. Like in the game Marco Polo, listening helps you know which direction to go. What is the Lord speaking to you about right now? Will you listen carefully and then do it?
APR 01 / Tue – Mirrors | Read James 1:19-25
James was one of Jesus’ brothers. He had become the leader of the Jerusalem church. He wrote some excellent advice that still applies today. In v19a, he advises us to be quick to listen. Not just to hear the words but really listen and consider what is being said. In v22, he gives the analogy of looking in a mirror. Consider the implications of these words. Listen quietly. Is the Holy Spirit bringing a certain situation to mind? What is he asking you to do? Will you obey it?
02 / Wed – What are you building on? | Read Luke 6:46-49
In the scenario described here, two people heard the words of Jesus, but they each responded differently. Jesus’ words can be the foundation of a stable life but only if you act on what he said. Do you know what Jesus would say about a current issue you are facing? If not, do some research in the Book. Ask someone you trust to point you in the right direction. Based on what you learn, ask yourself…what would Jesus tell me to do about this? Trust the Holy Spirit to guide you.
03 / Thu – The why behind the what | Read John 14:15, 21, 23-24, 30-31
Have you ever worked for someone you admired and respected? The job may have been hard, but you liked working for your boss. In fact, maybe you were extra diligent because you wanted to please that person. This applies to your Christian life. Jesus explains it clearly in these verses. And he didn’t just teach it, he modeled it (v 30-31). Does 1 Peter 1:8 describe you? How might this truth help you willingly tackle something difficult that Jesus wants you to do?
04 / Fri – Using discernment | Read Genesis 2:16-17 / Genesis 3:1-7
When making a decision, it’s important to consider what God says. Others may offer what seems like good advice but you need to be discerning. Eve was not. She knew the command but was tempted to believe the serpent’s half-truths. He promised benefits God was “withholding” from her. She didn’t consider God’s character or take her questions directly to Him. Are you confused about something? Will you take your questions to the Lord and listen to what He says? You can trust Him because He is good and wise and loves you unreservedly.
05 / Sat – Who will you follow? | Read Ezekiel 12:2 / Jeremiah 6:10
God chose the Israelites to represent Him and be a blessing to the world. However, there were times when they began to listen to their neighbors and disobey God’s instructions. Their actions were so contrary that the prophets called them rebellious people who had eyes and ears but refused to see or listen. The word of the Lord even became offensive to them. How can you avoid going down that road? Will you commit to listening, even if you might not like what you hear? Never underestimate the amazing things God has in store when you follow Him unreservedly.
