Scripture: Proverbs 31: 1-2
Pastor Irene Thompson

Scripture:
“The sayings of Kind Lemuel – the inspired utterances which his mother taught him: Listen, my son! Listen, son of my womb! Listen my son, the answer to my prayers (the son of my vows).”

Observation:
Listen.

This mother’s words are overflowing with deep love and profound concern. She is urgently sharing advice and wisdom, giving us all a poetic picture of a leading man and a noble woman. She says listen three times. This isn’t a casual conversation. It is as if a mother who has carried and nurtured her son from womb to the present, in the natural and in the spiritual, is now saying, “There is so much more the Father has for you, and so much at stake, where should I begin?” As she is stewarding her calling to mother as best she can, she is calling her son to steward his life with a reverent respect, awe and submission to God and His ways.

Application:
Listen.

My five-year old has heard me say more than once, “Be a good listener and listen the first time please – obedience is immediate, cheerful and complete.” That’s great instruction for me to. The Holy Spirit faithfully and tenderly communicates the Father’s heart to us and always has our best interest in mind. He is our great counselor who brings to remembrance God’s word, who whispers His guidance to our hearts, and lovingly convicts us to draw us back to the safe and loving arms of the Father. What a precious and priceless gift. I want to be a good listener who responds to His word and promptings immediately, cheerfully, and completely – knowing that God can be trusted and taken at His word.

Prayer:
Help Me Listen:

Lord, help me listen to your faithful instructions and apply them to every area of my life. Keep my heart and affections pointed to your faithfulness, goodness and provision; and may your loving kindness bring me to repentance. Help me to be a good steward of my life by listening with my heart, my mind, my soul, and my strength. Thank you for the countless ways you have been faithful and for the countless ways you will remain faithful. In Jesus name, Amen

“It is those who truly love us, and who are unselfishly devoted to our best interest, that have the greatest claim on us.” – W. Clarkson.