Listen Guide

What is it?

We have asked for our request. Now we listen to what the Lord has to say to us. We make ourselves available, giving ourselves the time and space needed to hear what God has to say.

God speaks through scripture, maybe the Gospel reading of the day, maybe he speaks through other people, through a thought, a book, a poem, through nature, through your imagination, or through a memory. There are so many ways God can speak to us. Be open to whatever way God chooses to speak to you today.

Be aware that the Lord often speaks through silence.

1 Kings 19:11-13 “But the Lord was not in the earthquake, and after the earthquake a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire, and after the fire a sound of sheer silence. When Elijah heard it, he wrapped his face in his mantle and went out and stood at the entrance of the cave. Then there came a voice to him that said, “What are you doing here, Elijah?”

Practice:

Listen to the Lord

Imagine that Jesus is sitting close beside you, waiting for you to give him time and space to hear what he has to say. He has heard your heart’s intention, now he wants you to be with him in mind, heart, body and soul.

Be aware of anything that may be stopping you from hearing God’s voice. You might find yourself going back over things that happened during the day like a quarrel, or self-judgement, or the temptation to criticise someone. Any negative emotion that comes to mind, repent of it and ask for God’s forgiveness.

“Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not into temptation”

Stop Talking

Go back to your breathing and breathe the Lord in and out, in and out. The Holy Spirit is here, waiting to come to you, to speak to you.

Stop talking, out loud, or in your head. God has something for you to hear. What do you need to hear? Write down anything you hear.