Listening actively shapes spiritual formation. It involves more than hearing—it requires intentionally discerning God’s voice, understanding others, and reflecting on our own hearts. This practice molds us into Christ’s likeness and prevents spiritual stagnation by allowing God to transform us.
Listening to God. Spiritual growth starts with listening to God. Scripture underscores the significance of hearing His voice, as seen in Deuteronomy 6:4 and 1 Kings 19:12. God often speaks in quiet moments, urging us to slow down and create sacred space for prayer and meditation. Psalm 1:2 directs us to delight in and meditate on God’s Word continually. To practice this, prioritize silence, prayer, and reflective Scripture reading.
Listening to others. Listening to others cultivates humility, love, and community. James 1:19 commands us to listen quickly and speak slowly. Deep listening strengthens accountability and mutual growth, as Proverbs 27:17 states: “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” Christ modeled this by always making time to listen to people. Active listening requires setting aside judgment, offering full attention, and remaining open to counsel and correction.
Listening to our hearts. Developing self-awareness plays a crucial role in spiritual formation. Listening inwardly reveals areas where God wants to work in us. Psalm 139:23-24 calls us to invite God to search and reveal our hearts. Journaling, self-examination, and confession help us process emotions and align our inner lives with God’s will.
The transformative power of listening aligns us with God’s will, strengthening relationships, and providing clarity. Mary, who sat at Jesus’ feet in Luke 10:38-42, demonstrates this attitude of listening. Listening equips us to obey God’s direction, as Samuel proclaimed: “Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening” (1 Samuel 3:10).