Hearing and listening are two different things. Hearing can happen accidentally but listening always involves attention and intention. God speaks to those who are listening – young and old alike.
For children, learning to listen to God is key to making good judgments, communicating ideas and living guided and safe from harm. And as they hear from God, they are empowered to make a difference.
In 1 Samuel 3: 1- 21, God spoke to young Samuel to convey an important message to Eli, the priest who raised him since he was a boy. Verse 19 says something very interesting: The Lord was with Samuel as he grew up, and he let none of his words fall to the ground.
God partners with children in bringing a message that can change the lives of adults, families, or even communities. God used Eli to train young Samuel how to listen and obey God no matter how difficult it may be. When the Lord revealed to the boy His plans for the house of Eli, Samuel was hesitant to pass the message. He was afraid how Eli might react but the priest guided and encouraged him.
The Lord was with Samuel as he grew up. He let none of his words fall to the ground. He grew up guided and safe because he learned well the value of listening to and obeying God. As children become aware of and experience God’s love, they learn to listen to God, obey Him, and are empowered to make a difference in their families and communities.
It is God who gives children simple yet special ways of teaching us great truths. God also uses people to teach kids how to listen to Him. We can teach kids how to hear from God as God teaches us to listen to Him through these kids.
When was the last time you listened to God through your interaction with a child?
Source: Originally posted on KIDS Caloocan Facebook page by Cherry Marcelo, Kids’ Church Teacher