Episode 13 · Be Careful How You Hear

In episode 13 of WordFed Life, Verlene Cromwell explores the importance of not just what we hear, but how we hear. Anchored in Luke 8:18, "Take heed therefore how ye hear," this episode delves into the active and intentional posture required for hearing God's word. Jesus emphasized that hearing is not merely a passive activity. It involves the condition of our hearts, and how we hear determines the impact of the word within us. Many hear the same message, yet walk away with different results. Some are strengthened, others unchanged. Some believe, others doubt. This episode challenges us to consider: Am I hearing with faith and expectation, or casually and distractedly? Hearing is a doorway into the heart. It shapes belief, which in turn shapes speech and life. Romans 10:17 reminds us, "So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God." Faith rises when the word is received and allowed to take root. Jesus' parable of the sower illustrates this truth. The seed, God's word, is good, but the condition of the ground—our hearts—determines its fruitfulness. Practical ways to ensure careful hearing include: - Hearing with hunger: approaching the word with a desire to be fed. - Hearing with faith: believing God's word above circumstances or past disappointments. - Hearing with humility: allowing the word to correct and guide us. - Hearing with obedience: translating hearing into action. The voice of God brings life, peace, and direction. Be wary of voices that magnify fear, pain, or the past. Jesus said, "My sheep hear my voice," and His voice aligns with truth and life. Let this declaration guide you: "I choose to carefully hear God. I hear the word of God with hunger. I hear the word of God with faith. I hear the word of God with humility. I hear the word of God with obedience. I reject every voice that does not agree with truth. I will not allow fear to interpret God's word for me. I will not hear casually. I will not hear carelessly. The word of God is taking root in my heart. Faith is rising up in me. Life is flowing from me. I hear the voice of my shepherd and I follow him." Welcome to WordFed Life — where words come alive.