Listening for God

God is good in so many ways. Today started like most Saturdays do for me — spending time in God’s Word. I was reading Psalm 34, and verses 11 and 18 stood out to me. Verse 11 says, “Come, my children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the Lord.” (NIV) Verse 18 says, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” (NIV) These verses stood out to me because they show us how to be and who God is. Verse 11 reminds us to come humbly, to listen, and to be teachable. The fear of the Lord isn’t about being afraid — it’s about reverence, obedience, and choosing to walk in His ways even when it’s hard. God invites us in as His children and patiently teaches us when we are willing to listen. Verse 18 brings comfort to those of us who are hurting. It doesn’t say God is distant from the brokenhearted — it says He is close. When our spirits feel crushed, when life feels heavy, God doesn’t turn away. He draws near and He saves. Together, these verses remind us that we are called to listen and trust, and we are promised that God meets us right where we are — especially in our brokenness. We don’t have to have it all together to come to Him. We just have to come.  I encourage you to find a place where you can truly listen for God — no matter where that is. It might be in the middle of the barnyard, out in the hay field, in the woods, sitting in a tree stand, or even in your house or car. God isn’t limited by location. He meets us wherever we are when we slow down and listen.