Hearing God’s Word is the simplest way to get God’s Word into your life … and it involves listening.
There are many ways you can hear God’s Word: At your Church, in a Bible Study, from a teacher in a Bible school, on Bible tapes and CDs and DVDs, by attending Christian Seminars, through a friend, listening to Christian radio, reading Christian books … non-fiction as well as fiction, and by searching online Bible based web pages. (See “Listen to the Audio Bible“)
It is important that when you are listening to anything that is not scripture, such as a Christian speaker, that you make sure that person is a reliable source of God’s truth. Acts 17:11 says, “And the people of Berea were more open-minded than those in Thessalonica, and they listened eagerly to Paul’s message. They searched the Scriptures day after day to see if Paul and Silas were teaching the truth” (NLT).
Whenever you hear God’s Word, attempt to learn what the Holy Spirit is trying to teach you personally writing down your thoughts when possible.
“Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the Word of Christ” —Romans 10:17, NIV
As Christians, we are disciples of Christ who are committed to learning His truth and following His directions.
“As a follower of the Lord, I order you to stop living like stupid, godless people. Their minds are in the dark, and they are stubborn and ignorant and have missed out on the life that comes from God. They no longer have any feelings about what is right, but are to become Christlike in our character by renewing our mind with the truth of God’s Word” —Ephesians 4:17-18, CEV
Those are pretty bold words!
Romans 12:2 challenges us with a more positive approach with these words, “Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—His good, pleasing and perfect will” (NIV).
Listening is the easiest way to get God’s Word into your mind, but it isn’t a totally passive endeavor! As you listen to God’s Word, ask questions to apply God’s truth in your life. (See “Renewing Your Mind” and “The R.E.C.A.P. Bible Study Method”)