In a Reader’s Digest article recapping interviews of couples married 40, 50, or even 60 years, all said similarly that despite their shared history together, they were still changing, growing, and learning new things about each other.
A big factor to their marriages’ longevity was developing good communication skills. Most happily married couples will tell you that they have learned to listen to their spouse—(not “agree” but “listen.”)
Relationship is not a one-way monologue, but an ongoing shared dialogue.
What about our relationship with the Creator of the universe? Learning to know Him and listening to hear His voice is a lifetime endeavor—and a journey that marks the Christian life with its greatest joy.
Prayer has many aspects, including praise, confession, thanksgiving, petition, and intercession. But an often overlooked, and equally important facet of prayer is listening.
Evangelical Christian missionary Frank C. Laubach said:
“Prayer at its highest is a two-way conversation and for me the most important part is listening to God’s replies.”
Hebrews 4 speaks of a promised rest to God’s people. David called it the “secret place of the Most High.” Many never find it because unbelief and pride harden their hearts.
“There remains therefore a rest for the people of God. For he who has entered His rest has himself also ceased from his works as God did from His. Let us therefore be diligent to enter that rest, lest anyone fall according to the same example of disobedience.” (Hebrews 4:9-11 NKJV)
Resting our hearts in His presence is central to our prayer lives; for it’s in quietness and rest that we hear His still small voice. The Lord leads us beside still waters, and there restores our souls (Psalm 23:2-3). 
As we share ourselves in relationship with God through Jesus Christ, the ears of our hearts remain open to His voice. Much dialogue, and also sitting quietly in His presence and listening to Him speak, is a vital part of our daily prayer time.
In that quiet place, we cease from our own works, and allow Him to do His.
Copyright © 2016 Cheryl Elton
Great message, Cheryl. And a good way of communicating it!
Thanks Nina! God bless you much.
Ah yes prayer, and listening perhaps the most underrated aspect of prayer ~ that could not be emphasized enough. Thanks Cheryl for sharing on prayer.
You’re welcome Tony. Glad you found it meaningful.
Thanks, Cheryl, for a quiet reminder in the midst of the rush of busy days.
Blessings to you, Sarah. Can’t wait for your book to come out in August!
“Be still, and know that I am God.” Psalm 46:10a
Love that verse – such a simple reminder.