| 1 Peter 5:7 – “…casting all your anxiety on Him, because He care for you.” |
-Jeff Beall“The best way to influence others is by listening to them.” I believe this more each day.
I messaged a friend. “I am praying for you every day.” I received a reply. “It is comforting to know that.” I was listening to a friend tell about a very stressful week full of harrowing events. I needed to use the bathroom, but did my best to focus on what she was telling me. I reminded myself “This is more important than your bladder.” My bladder argued back “You wait much longer and you might change your mind.” I made it through and was able to focus on what she was telling me.
I believe listening is a super power. I can’t explain it, but it works. When I listen, and can convince the other person that I heard what they said, that I felt what they told me, there is healing power in it. Healing for their soul and for my soul.
For me, I am acting as God’s secret agent. I am His eyes, His ears, His hands. And that is a good feeling. Because I have served Satan way too much in my time.
Once I stopped to help a woman with a flat tire. She was on Alma Road near Collin Creek Mall (a mall since flattened). She seemed harmless, so I felt ok helping her. As I approached her and offered to help, she declared “You are the angel I asked God to send.” I felt strange. I was the answer to her prayers. I knew I wasn’t an angel, but I realized that in her eyes, I was God’s agent at that moment, on a mission He had given me. Which brings me to another super power. Prayer.
Sometimes I pray and I must confess, I wonder if it is helping. Once I told myself “If you believe that, then quit praying. Don’t waste your breath.” I didn’t quit. I pray.
THE GOD of this whole universe permits me to enter His presence ANYTIME I feel the need, and He hears every word. The one person who is all powerful, all knowing, and who cares more than anyone. He listens in any language, in any emotion. And He understands.
Father in heaven, help me to pray, believing You are listening to every word, and help me to listen to others as You listen to me, in Jesus’ name, Amen!
