I want to share with you a powerful message that I recently came across. As someone who has been actively seeking the Lord and studying His word for over 40 years, I have been greatly influenced by various TV evangelists. One of my favorites during this time was a man named Charles Stanley. His teachings and insights have ministered to my heart in profound ways. Today, I want to discuss a message titled “Two Types of Listeners” that I believe will resonate with many of you.
Passive and Active Listeners
In every church around the world, there are two types of listeners: passive and active. Passive listeners are those who attend church regularly but allow their minds to wander during the sermon. They may be physically present, but their thoughts are elsewhere. They observe people, notice how others dress and act, socialize with friends, and make plans for lunch. Their primary motivation for going to church is not to hear from the Lord, but rather out of habit or to feel better about themselves.
On the other hand, active listeners enter the sanctuary with anticipation and excitement about what the Lord is going to say. They come prepared with their Bible, notebook, and pen in hand, ready to capture the message. They are fully engaged, taking notes and trying not to miss a single point of the sermon. These active listeners are eager to apply the message to their own lives and seek to hear from God in every word spoken. 
The Importance of Active Listening
Listening is not just a passive activity; it requires active participation. When God speaks, we should do our best to listen actively. God communicates with us in various ways, and when He speaks, it is crucial that we tune in and pay attention. Active listening allows us to receive the fullness of His message and apply it to our lives.
However, we all have days when our focus may waver. If you find your mind wandering during worship or the sermon, take a moment to refocus your thoughts and ask the Lord to help you tune in to what He is saying. He is faithful to guide us back to a place of attentiveness and receptivity.
Perfect Timing
As I was preparing to share various messages from Charles Stanley, I came across this particular one titled “Two Types of Listeners.” The timing of this message was impeccable, as it spoke directly to my heart. It reminded me of the importance of being an active listener and seeking to hear from God in every moment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, we must strive to be active listeners in our churches and in our daily lives. Passive listening may be easy, but it robs us of the opportunity to truly hear from God and experience His transformative power. Let us come to church with anticipation and excitement, ready to receive the message that God has for us. And when our minds wander, let us refocus our thoughts and ask the Lord to help us tune in to what He is saying. By actively listening, we open ourselves up to the fullness of His message and allow it to impact our lives in a meaningful way.
