Teach Me to Listen
A.W. Tozer encourages listeners to cultivate a listening spirit, quiet their noisy minds, and seek to hear God's voice in their hearts.
A.W. Tozer emphasizes the importance of listening to God amidst the chaos of life, drawing inspiration from the biblical account of Samuel who responded to God's call with a willing heart. He prays for the ability to hear God's voice clearly, urging believers to cultivate a familiarity with it so that they can discern it above the noise of the world. Tozer's message encourages a deep, personal relationship with God, where one actively seeks to listen and respond to His guidance.
Text
Now the Lord came and stood and called as at other times, "Samuel! Samuel!" And Samuel answered, "Speak, for Your servant hears." --1 Samuel 3:10
Lord, teach me to listen. The times are noisy and my ears are weary with the thousand raucous sounds which continuously assault them. Give me the spirit of the boy Samuel when he said to Thee, "Speak, for thy servant heareth." Let me hear Thee speaking in my heart. Let me get used to the sound of Thy voice, that its tones may be familiar when the sounds of earth die away and the only sound will be the music of Thy speaking voice. Amen. The Pursuit of God, pp. 82-83
"Speak, for Thy servant heareth. Amen."
Sermon Outline
- The Importance of Listening
- The Example of Samuel
- Practicing Listening
- Getting used to God's voice
- Listening in the midst of noise
Key Quotes
“Speak, for Thy servant heareth.” — A.W. Tozer
“Let me hear Thee speaking in my heart.” — A.W. Tozer
“Let me get used to the sound of Thy voice, that its tones may be familiar when the sounds of earth die away and the only sound will be the music of Thy speaking voice.” — A.W. Tozer
Application Points
- Make time for quiet reflection and meditation to tune in to God's voice.
- Be intentional about listening for God's guidance in your daily life.
- Seek to obey God's commands and follow His lead.