Whether it was two days, or a month, or a longer time, that the cloud continued over the tabernacle, abiding there, the people of Israel remained in camp and did not set out, but when it lifted they set out. At the command of the Lord they camped, and at the command of the Lord they set out. They kept the charge of the Lord, at the command of the Lord by Moses.
Numbers 9:22-23

He said to me, “Son of man, all My words that I shall speak to you receive in your heart, and hear with your ears.”
Ezekiel 3:10

Being led by the Spirit of God is sometimes effortless; it just seems natural and right. Other times, it takes us by surprise. Can you imagine the people of Israel seeing the cloud rise up from over the tabernacle, and saying, “What? Now? No, it’s too soon! We just got here, I’m comfortable, and everything’s going so well!”

God wants us to listen, to grow accustomed to hearing His voice so that we respond quickly, willingly, trusting and obeying even when we don’t yet understand. He gives us plenty of practice, so that our ears become tuned to the sound of His Word and the pattern of our thoughts begins to track His.

Receive His Word as you read, even if you don’t understand it at the time. He’s speaking to you there, even when your hearing has become dull. Let it sink into your heart and begin to take root. It will eventually bear fruit in your understanding, in the way you think and feel, speak and respond.

Lord, forgive my often dullness of heart and unwillingness to listen. Open my eyes and ears to listen as I read, so that my hearing becomes tuned to Your voice. Guide me by Your loving hand through this day, for Jesus’ sake. Amen.

Pastor Dan Giles