He's Listening

Everyone likes to be heard. What a precious gift it is to be a good listener, and God is the perfect listener. He invites both the troubled and the rejoicing soul to speak to Him. There is none other who listens so attentively with unhindered and tender understanding. God feels our words! We may be able to talk with friend here on earth who know us well; those who listen to our hearts with their hearts but there are no human ears [or hearts] that hear with the perfection of The Father. Matthew Henry describes God, our very Best Friend: "It is ease to a burdened spirit, to open its case to a faithful and compassionate friend." In 19:16, King Hezekiah prayed, "LORD, bow down thine ear and hear" - isn't that a sweet picture of a good listener, a leans-in toward the one speaking! Such a tender posture, leaving no risk of missing a word, a sigh, a breath, a pause, a cry ... wanting to miss nothing. Our Heavenly Father is the perfect listener; He is a holy Audience of One Who loves His children. Furthermore, He loves to hear from us: talk to Him ... He's listening.