Knowing God’s word is good, but it’s not enough. We must be willing, even eager, for Him to speak to us.

⁵ Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;
⁶ in all your ways submit to him, and he will direct your paths. Proverbs 3:5-6

There was one more thing I wanted to say about James 1:19-21. Let’s look at the passage again,

⁹ My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, ²⁰ because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires. ²¹ Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you.

How does the word get planted in our hearts? We must hear/read it. The New Testament was built upon the verbal sharing of Scripture and teaching. Most people couldn’t read, and those who did usually read aloud so that others could join in. In our case, we have the golden opportunity to study our Bibles everyday and then, on top of that, get to hear sermons live on Sundays and online anytime we want.

But, there’s more to it than just hearing. The message God wants us to hear must be activated by the Holy Spirit. Only then does the spiritual seed grow in us. But, there’s even more to it than that. We must humbly accept that word. It is then that it has the power to save us. From what does it save us? From temptation, from destruction, from heartache, from regret, and I’m sure there are others.

Let’s listen to the Spirit today as He guides us and directs our paths.

Abba, we are counting on You to lead us today. We need Your guidance. So, as we walk through our day, may You direct us in the way we should go. I am reminded of Isaiah 30:21, which says, “Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, ‘This is the way; walk in it.’” That’s Your voice! May we listen closely and obey immediately and completely. Amen.