Active Listening

Active listening, within the biblical context, refers to the intentional and focused effort to hear and understand God's Word, as well as the words of others. This practice is deeply rooted in Scripture, where believers are encouraged to listen attentively to God's voice and the teachings of Jesus Christ.

In the Old Testament, the Shema, found in Deuteronomy 6:4, begins with the imperative "Hear, O Israel," emphasizing the importance of listening as a foundational aspect of faith. The Hebrew word for "hear," shema, implies not only hearing but also obeying and responding to what is heard. This concept is echoed throughout Scripture, where listening is often linked with obedience and action.

Proverbs 18:13 warns against answering before listening, stating, "He who answers a matter before he hears it—this is folly and disgrace to him." This highlights the value of listening fully before responding, a principle that applies to both divine and human interactions.

In the New Testament, Jesus frequently calls for attentive listening. In Matthew 11:15, He says, "He who has ears, let him hear." This call to listen is not merely about physical hearing but about understanding and internalizing His teachings. James 1:19 further instructs believers to be "quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger," underscoring the importance of active listening in fostering wisdom and patience.

Active listening also involves discerning the voice of God amidst the noise of the world. In John 10:27, Jesus declares, "My sheep listen to My voice; I know them, and they follow Me." This relationship between the Shepherd and His sheep illustrates the intimate connection that comes from listening to and recognizing the voice of Christ.

Active Seeing

Active seeing in the biblical sense involves perceiving and understanding spiritual truths and realities beyond the physical realm. It is the ability to see with the eyes of faith, recognizing God's presence and work in the world.

The Bible often contrasts physical sight with spiritual insight. In 2 Corinthians 5:7, Paul writes, "For we walk by faith, not by sight." This verse encourages believers to rely on spiritual perception rather than solely on what is visible. Similarly, Hebrews 11:1 defines faith as "the assurance of what we hope for and the certainty of what we do not see," highlighting the importance of seeing with faith.

Jesus frequently addressed the issue of spiritual blindness. In John 9:39, He states, "For judgment I have come into this world, so that the blind may see and those who see may become blind." Here, Jesus speaks of the spiritual blindness of those who refuse to recognize Him as the Messiah, contrasting it with the spiritual sight granted to those who believe.

The account of Elisha and his servant in 2 Kings 6:17 provides a vivid example of active seeing. When the servant is fearful of the enemy army, Elisha prays, "O LORD, please open his eyes that he may see." The LORD opens the servant's eyes, revealing the mountain full of horses and chariots of fire, symbolizing God's protection. This narrative illustrates the reality that spiritual sight allows believers to perceive God's power and presence even in dire circumstances.

Active seeing also involves recognizing the image of God in others and the beauty of His creation. Psalm 19:1 declares, "The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands." This recognition calls believers to see God's handiwork in the world around them, fostering a sense of awe and worship.

In summary, active listening and seeing are integral to a vibrant faith, enabling believers to hear God's voice, perceive His presence, and respond in obedience and worship. These practices cultivate a deeper relationship with God and a more profound understanding of His will and purpose.