Before they call I will answer; while they are still speaking I will hear. The wolf and the lamb will feed together, and the lion will eat straw like the ox. Isaiah 65:24-25
There is a distinct tonal quality in each voice. Friends call on the phone, and after only a word or two we recognize the speaker on the other end of the line. As blind Isaac identified Jacob, the younger of his twin sons, by his voice, so we know the familiar sound of a family member speaking with us.
Our recognition of voices, however, is very limited, especially when compared with the staggering ability of God. His ears detect the feeblest cry. The multitude of voices that rise up to Him never overtax the switchboard of either His omniscience or His grace.
It is not the pleasing tone of voice or the persuasive petition that causes God to listen. He hears the repentant sigh of the sinner, the sobs of the hurt spirit, the whisper of the soul in need, and the groan of the one in pain.
God hears even before the words are formed in the larynx and on the lips. He understands when the first impulse of faith in Jesus Christ, prompted by the Spirit, comes into being. And when His children gratefully respond to His goodness, the echo of their praise delights His heart.
PRAYER: My faith is so shallow! Teach me, Lord, to pray. Amen.
(Taken from "Words of Promise," copyright 1996 (out of print), Concordia Publishing House. For information on other devotional materials, call 1-800-325-3040.)
Today's Bible Readings: Ezekiel 24-26 1 Peter 2
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