July 12th

July 12th

Read: 1 Chron. 28:9; Jer. 29:13; 1 Kings 19:12; Matt. 7:7; Rev. 3:20

When I was a child and in bed, I could always hear Mother’s footsteps approaching. It was comforting to know that she was near. I listened for her. It was especially so when I was ill or was fearful for some reason at night. I recall one night when I had been feverish, probably whimpering in a fretful sleep, and I didn’t hear her enter the room. Suddenly she was there in her robe, so suddenly that it frightened me, for I did not realize it was her.

This is similar to the experience we have as believers. When we listen for the Savior’s presence, we are blessed by it. When we are listening to the world, or Satan, or self, however,
and the Savior suddenly makes His presence felt, we are apt to be startled and even fearful. He is ever near, wooing us to Himself in every circumstance. It is sad when we do not listen for Him and, so, miss the blessings He has for us.

UNLESS WE’RE LISTENING
Softly fall His footsteps near,
Naught but whispers on the ear.
Unless we’re listening, Truly listening,
We’ll not know that He is here.

Sweetly sounds His clarion call,
O’er the din that muffles all.
Unless we’re listening,
Truly listening,
‘Twill not hold us in its thrall.

Gently doth He stretch His hand,
Touching, searching to expand.
Unless we’re seeking,
Truly seeking,
We may never understand.

Faintly to our earthly sight
Comes His vision through the night.
Unless we’re seeking,
Truly seeking,
We may miss His heavenly light.

Prayer: Dear Lord, forgive me when I pay little attention to You because of the clamor in my days. Help me to listen more carefully for Your footsteps and seek more deeply for Your light.