Transformed by the Word: Whoever has ears to hear

by Lynda Wake  | Wycliffe Today Winter 2025 Edition

Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches. Revelation 2:7 (NIV)

Talking to God comes quite naturally for me as I ramble on about all manner of topics – both important and trivial. On the other hand, hearing God’s voice is a daily challenge – mostly because I am easily distracted and I do not always take intentional time to tune in and really listen. 

Thankfully, I am coming to understand how silence can be a gift. Perhaps the still, small voice of God can only truly be heard within the realm of silence – and maybe even more so in times of ‘painful silence’. 

Jesus challenged people around him about the importance of spiritual hearing. Through teachings and parables, he warned his audience to listen with ‘ears to hear’. This admonishment continues to echo throughout history to all people, across all cultures and generations: Whoever has ears to hear, let them hear! Let them listen to me, understand and obey!’ 

While it is true that most people are born with the privilege of physical ears to hear, having the spiritual ears to hear is another matter. It is when we intentionally attune our ears to the voice of Jesus that we begin to hear him speak to us in ways that change us and positively affect the world around us.

Friends, it is vital in these challenging days to offer our obedient attention to Jesus’ life-giving words, and to listen like our lives depend upon it – because they really do! 

For reflection: Is there a way you could make more space in your schedule to silently attune your spiritual ears to listen to the voice of Jesus? 

Be transformed by the Word as you engage with: John 10:1-18 and Psalm 85

Prayer: Father, I confess I don’t always look after my spiritual ears to hear your eternal words of life. Please help me make any necessary changes so I can understand more fully, and experience the joy of obeying your voice. Amen.