Selective Hearing

Prepare: Creation itself speaks to us of God's love, provision and majesty.
Read: Romans 10:14-21

Have you ever experienced what I like to call "selective hearing"? For example, you are having a conversation with someone and suddenly realize that you haven't heard a word the other person is saying. Unfortunately, it would seem that often we hear only what we choose to hear. Over the centuries, God sent many prophets to tell His chosen people of His love for them. God sent His Son, Jesus. Israel chose not to hear the One who came to offer them salvation.

The missionary heart of Paul comes out in verse 14-17. Salvation is by faith and faith comes "by hearing.. the Word of God". But unbelieving sinners (including Israel) cannot hear unless we tell them. God needs people with beautiful feet (Isa.52:7) to carry the gospel to the lost. Despite Paul's broken heart and God's outstretched hands, Israel did not believe; but the Gentiles did believe and God saved them! When you feel discouraged in your witnessing, remember Paul, continue caring, praying, and sharing the good news. Keep those feet beautiful!

God is still speaking to the world today. Charles Spurgeon said "fate is blind, but the destiny of Scripture is full of eyes. Fate is stern and adamant, and has no tears for human sorrow. But the arrangements of Providence are kind and good."

Respond: Open our ears that we might hear You. Open our eyes that we might see You. Open our hearts that we might follow You.