View Site Map

Don't remember the former things, and don't consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing. It springs out now. Don't you know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert. Isaiah 43:18-19 WEB.

I was sitting in church one morning listening to the guest speaker's monotone message. When to put it frankly, I became bored. I yawned, searched for the time, and wondered how long would it be before we could go home. I had served the Lord a couple decades, graduated seminary, and listened to a thousand sermons I liked better than this one. So I felt this particular speaker had nothing new to say that I hadn't already heard.

As I was contemplating my boredom, I felt the Holy Spirit suddenly speak to me. He wasn't happy about my attitude. He said, "Do you really know everything that I am going to say? Is there nothing new that I can teach you?" Chills ran down my neck. I sat up straight and started paying attention. I actually learned a couple of things during the rest of the service.

I left church that day like a dog with his tail tucked between his legs, and I try to pay better attention when the Holy Spirit uses someone. If you're not careful, God can be standing right in front of you trying to tell you something, and you can dismiss Him.

In numbers 22:28, God spoke through a donkey to a stubborn prophet that wouldn't listen. The religious leaders of the day missed the Messiah, even when He stood right in front of them. When Jesus spoke in His hometown of Nazareth, they tried to kill Him (Luke 4:28). Stephen was so full of the Holy Spirit that his face shown like that of an angel. Yet, highly religious people stopped up their ears and stoned him to death (Acts 7:15). We can miss God just as easily as they did if we aren't willing to be teachable and keep an open mind.

It is easy to become cynical and believe that you are really smart when you have been around religion a long time. We can become a modern-day pharisee. We know people for who they were, but God knows who they are today. He will use anyone willing. At least once, the Lord spoke to someone through a donkey. When He does that, we should listen. So if someone is sharing something, listen to what they are saying! You might learn something like I did.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, please forgive me of the times that You have been trying to tell me something, and I paid You no attention. Help me recognize when You are speaking to me and tune my ear to You. In the name of Jesus Christ, I pray. Amen!

Note: This morning, we will be hosting our RHM Live Online church service. This is a special time of worship, prayer, fellowship and an inspiring message. All are welcome! Here is the link to join: RHM Live

> You can subscribe to our daily devotional here <