Listening to God When He Speaks - Beloved Women - May 8, 2023
READ: “One who heard us was a woman named Lydia, from the city of Thyatira, a seller of purple goods, who was a worshiper of God. The Lord opened her heart to pay attention to what was said by Paul.” (Acts 16:14 ESV)
TODAY’S ENCOURAGEMENT: Six of us sang, prayed, and sang some more at a prayer meeting. Then one by one these women, whose average age was 80, began to testify. As I listened, God revealed a common thread in their experiences with Him. He had opened their hearts to love, gratitude, and life lessons worth sharing.
The story of Lydia of Thyatira reveals her as a hardworking mature woman, who managed a household, and faithfully took the time to pray with other worshipers on the Sabbath. She was at a prayer meeting when Paul and Silas showed up and began teaching about Christ. She wasn’t expecting to encounter the Savior, but the Lord chose that moment to alter the course of her life and those of her household.
It could be during a sermon, a bible study, or while reading a blogpost that God quickens our hearts with a word that breathes life into our spirits. Wholehearted listening is powerful, redemptive, and transformational. We are changed to be a force of change. Let’s open our hearts to actively listen when God speaks because through listening to Him we discover our own voices as we’re empowered to share what we’ve gleaned with others.
PRAY: Father in Heaven, we are so grateful that You chose to speak into our lives. Whisper into our ears and give us understanding and insight so that we may be transformed into Your likeness. Please amplify our testimonies as we seek to glorify You. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
REFLECT: Pause and listen to His voice. Breathe in and breathe out. Take note of what you hear from Him.
SHARE: God can alter the course of your life if you’re open to hearing His voice.
CONNECT: Find more encouragement from Alida Sharp at www.alidasharp.com
MORE BELOVED: If you like the Beloved Women Daily Devotional you will love the Beloved Women’s Online Conference. This a weekend event is filled with speakers, worship, workshops and more to refresh, refuel, and empower women like us to find rest for our souls, peace for our minds, and hope for the journey. Our mission is to replenish the women who do so much for their families and communities so they can continue to build better futures for themselves and those they love and serve. If you’re ready to energize your relationship with God learn more and register today at https://www.belovedconference.org.
© 2021 by Alida Sharp. All rights reserved.
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