DECEMBER 8 - Listening Matters
3-Year-Bible Reading: Proverbs 29:15,17; Psalm 140; Deuteronomy 18:15–19; Acts 3
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3-Year Bible Devotional Book Available on Amazon
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“The rod and reproof give wisdom, but a child left to himself brings shame to his mother… Discipline your son, and he will give you rest; he will give delight to your heart.” — Proverbs 29:15,17
“I know that the Lord will maintain the cause of the afflicted, and will execute justice for the needy.” — Psalm 140:12
“The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among you, from your brothers—it is to him you shall listen.” — Deuteronomy 18:15
“You are the sons of the prophets and of the covenant that God made with your fathers… God, having raised up his servant, sent him to you first, to bless you by turning every one of you from your wickedness.” — Acts 3:25–26
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It’s easy to tune out advice, especially when it comes from parents, teachers, or anyone who seems like they’re just trying to control your life. But the truth is, God often speaks through those voices to guide you toward what’s best.
In Deuteronomy 18, God promised to send a prophet we should listen to. That prophet is Jesus, and He’s not just someone to admire—He’s someone to listen to. When we ignore His voice, we miss out on healing, wisdom, and real life change. In Acts 3, Peter calls people to turn from their ways and listen to Jesus, the one sent to bless them. And in Proverbs 29, we’re reminded that discipline—though it might not feel great—actually leads to wisdom and peace.
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THINK ABOUT IT
1. Who Are You Listening To? Are the voices influencing your life pointing you toward Jesus, or away from Him? It's worth checking whose opinions you value most.
2. Discipline = Love: What if correction isn't rejection, but actually God's way of loving you? Proverbs reminds us that loving discipline leads to rest, not stress.
3. Jesus Speaks—Do You Hear Him? In a noisy world full of distractions, make time to listen to the voice of the one sent to bless and lead you.
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BOTTOM LINE
God uses discipline, His Word, and even others to help us grow in wisdom. Jesus is the promised one we’re called to listen to—and when we do, He leads us into blessing, not burden.
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PRAYER
Heavenly Father, thank You for loving me enough to guide me—even when it comes through correction. Help me not to tune out Your voice, but to truly listen to Jesus and follow His way. Teach me to recognize Your wisdom in the people You’ve placed in my life. Give me a heart that welcomes truth and a desire to walk in it. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.