"Listen and Follow Well" | September 21, 2025 | Eric Ward

In a world that often feels like it's spinning out of control, how do we find stability and meaning? The answer lies in building our lives on a foundation that can withstand any storm - the teachings of Jesus Christ. But it's not enough to simply hear these teachings; we must listen intently and follow them with purpose.

Jesus himself said, "Anyone who listens to my teaching and follows it is wise, like a person who builds a house on solid rock. Though the rain comes in torrents and the flood waters rise and the winds beat against that house, it won't collapse because it is built on bedrock." (Matthew 7:24-25)

This powerful metaphor illustrates a fundamental truth: our lives are like houses, and the foundation we choose to build upon determines our ability to weather life's inevitable storms. But what does it truly mean to listen and follow Christ's teachings? How can we ensure we're not just hearing, but truly understanding and applying these vital lessons to our lives?

James, the brother of Jesus, offers further insight: "But don't just listen to God's word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves. For if you listen to the word and don't obey, it is like glancing at your face in a mirror. You see yourself, walk away, and forget what you look like." (James 1:22-24)

This comparison to looking in a mirror is particularly striking. How often do we hear a powerful message, feel momentarily moved, but then go about our day unchanged? True transformation comes when we not only hear the word but internalize it and allow it to reshape our actions and attitudes.

So how do we become better listeners and followers of Christ's teachings? Here are five practical steps we can take:

1. Slow Down and Read the Word: In our frantic-paced world, it's crucial to intentionally set aside time to engage with Scripture. Aim for at least 30 minutes of focused Bible reading each day. There are numerous resources available, from Bible apps to study guides, to help make this a meaningful practice.

2. Ask God for Revelation: As you read, prayerfully ask, "What are You trying to reveal to me in this passage, Lord?" Look for commands to obey, behaviors to emulate or avoid, promises to claim, and principles to follow.

3. Self-Examination: Regularly reflect on your recent behaviors, emotions, motives, and thoughts in light of what God has revealed through His Word. This step requires honesty and vulnerability with yourself and with God.

4. Address What Was Discovered: Once you've identified areas of misalignment between your life and God's teachings, take action. Ask yourself probing questions: Why do I chase after status? What lies am I believing? What behaviors need to change? This may involve seeking counsel or support from trusted spiritual mentors.

5. Be Consistent and Frequent: Just as we wouldn't expect to maintain good oral hygiene by brushing our teeth once a month, we can't expect spiritual health without regular engagement with God's Word and self-reflection. Make this process a consistent part of your routine.

To illustrate the importance of consistency, consider the cautionary tale of King Solomon. This wise and God-fearing leader started strong, even asking God for wisdom above all else. Yet over time, Solomon drifted from his devotion to God. He accumulated foreign wives who introduced idol worship, and shockingly, Solomon himself began to entertain and worship other gods. This gradual departure from God's ways led to the division of Israel, with far-reaching consequences.

While most of us aren't ruling kingdoms, the principle remains the same. Inconsistency in our spiritual practices can lead to a slow drift away from God, impacting our relationships, mental health, and overall well-being.

The power of God's Word to transform lives is immeasurable. It has the ability to break chains of depression, anxiety, and addiction. It can heal broken marriages and restore fractured relationships. But we must approach it with intention and commitment.

Consider this challenge: For the next eight weeks, commit to implementing these five steps at least twice a week, for 30 minutes each time. Write down specific days and times you'll dedicate to this practice. If you're already doing this consistently, consider how you might encourage and support others in developing these habits.

As we strive to listen well and follow Christ's teachings faithfully, we position ourselves to experience the fullness of what God has for us. We build our lives on the solid rock that can withstand any storm life throws our way.

Remember Jesus' words: "Anyone who listens to my teaching and follows it is wise, like a person who builds a house on solid rock." Let's be those wise builders, constructing lives of purpose, strength, and unwavering faith.

In a world full of shifting sands and unstable ground, we have the opportunity to anchor ourselves to something truly unshakeable. By committing to these practices of listening, reflecting, and obeying God's Word, we create a foundation that not only supports us but becomes a beacon of hope and stability to those around us.

As you go forward, ask yourself: What area of my life needs to be more firmly grounded in God's truth? How can I make listening and following Christ's teachings a more integral part of my daily routine? What might change in my life, my family, or my community if I truly built my life on this solid foundation?

The journey of faith is not always easy, but it is always worthwhile. As we learn to truly listen and follow, we open ourselves up to experiencing the transformative power of God in ways we may never have imagined. So let's take that first step together, building our lives on the unshakeable foundation of Christ's teachings, one day at a time.