LISTENING PRAYER

Listening Prayer

Michael Edwards

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. 

Phil 4:6-7 NASB

I recently heard of a listening prayer. 

With this prayer, we make our specific request known to our Heavenly Father and then seek His direct wisdom and guidance by listening. 

We talk very little and then pay attention for His response. 

I like the idea since prayer is too often a rambling of words, lots of talking, and no listening. 

It is kind of foolish when you think about it. 

We, who know very little, meet with God Almighty, who knows everything, talk much, and listen little.

Let's say we want God to reveal any negative strongholds in our lives that are holding us back. We prayerfully make our request known to God in a few words and then go silent for a period of time, seeking His instruction and guidance. 

The amount of time is up to us. 

If God wants to reveal something to us at that moment, the Holy Spirit will speak to us in some manner. 

The revelation could even come later that day as we keep listening. 

It may be revealed to us through another person. Whether we hear the Holy Spirit or not, depends on if we are earnestly seeking, listening, and expecting. 

We know our loving Father always hears our prayers. Now we need to pay attention so we can always hear or sense the Spirit who leads us into all truth.

Maybe you are already a good listener, but for the rest of us, it may take some time to patiently attune ourselves to the Spirit's voice. 

With our patience and expectation, His peace will overtake the moment, and the Spirits voice will become clear.

Give all your cares to the Lord for He cares for you, then listen intently.

New Hope's youth pastor Richie mentioned a listening prayer here: Battle Plan Conference - New Hope Community Church. Click the link to watch this message or many great sermons.

Contact Michael