“The Soul-inspired patriarchs heard the voice of Truth, and talked with God as consciously as man talks with man.” By Mary Baker Eddy Science and Health p. 308
We are encouraged often at this church to talk to God. Last Wed. a testifier spoke of learning to talk with God and how it brought blessings to his life taking the time to do this. The above citation from our Lesson this week gave me a deeper sense that listening is a very important part of talking with God. A couple of days ago I came across a book that was written by the same author who wrote “On The Way There” found on our website. The message was a good reminder to me that to be a better listener.
“Marjorie bit her lip. ‘Well,’ she said at last, ‘you didn’t have the rhyme right, anyway.’
‘Why isn’t it right?’ asked the Dream.
‘It’s:– Open your mouth and shut your eyes. And I’ll give you something to make you wise.’
‘Nonsense!’ said the Dream. ‘If you’d try it the other way, Open you eyes and shut your mouth, you’d find that you didn’t need anything ‘to make you wise.’
Marjorie pondered for a moment. ‘Perhaps you are right,’ she said, finally. ‘I’m sure I’ve had more trouble through opening my mouth than I ever had through keeping it shut.’ Through The Woods by Katherine M. Yates
Here are a few things we are told make a good listener. Listen to learn with the intention of understanding and getting the feeling of the message and to build a meaningful connection, desire to be there, be open, humble, teachable, give your full attention with respect. This made me realize in my time with God I must keep out distractions, not come with a to do list, opinions, or an agenda and be aware to take the time to feel the message. I can see how the discipline of true listening is essential to cultivate.
“To-day, if ye would hear His voice, listen to His Word and serve no other gods. Then the divine Principle of good, that we call God, will be found an ever-present help in all things, and Christian Science will be understood.” by Mary Baker Eddy My 152