Jen’s Gem: You can hear from God.

Many times, during my church’s Sunday service, my Pastor will say something profound. The congregation usually responds with “Say it again!” Not because they didn’t hear it the first time, but because they want to write it down or let it really sink in.

In the New Testament, there are many times Jesus repeats Himself. Again, not because people didn’t hear Him, but because the truth He was sharing was so important, He wanted to make sure people got it. Remember He was only here for a short time.

Let’s look at an example or two:

“Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father.  And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it.” (John 14: 12-14 KJV, emphasis mine)

The above verse in John is powerful. Jesus is saying that if you believe in Him, you will be able to do the same things He did during His time here. Additionally, whatever you ask the Father in Jesus name, He will do. Whoa!

This is life-changing, no? Knowing this truth should transform your prayer life! Jesus is saying that whatever you ask, He will do, if you ask in His name. Now please don’t think this turns God into a vending machine. God wants us to seek His face, not just His hand.

Let’s look at another time when Jesus repeats Himself. You may be familiar with the story of Mary and Martha, the sisters of Lazarus who Jesus raised from the dead. (Click here to read the full story.)

“And Jesus answered and said to her, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and troubled about many things.  But one thing is needed, and Mary has chosen that good part, which will not be taken away from her.” (Luke 10:38-42 NKJV, emphasis mine)

Do you see above that Jesus is calling out Martha’s name twice? You might be tempted to think that Jesus was scolding her or doing the ‘shaking my head’ emoji at her. I assure He was not. When names are repeated in the Bible, it is done to get the person’s attention.

Again, we see that Jesus wanted Martha to understand an important truth. You see Martha was running around fixing a meal, while her sister Mary was at the feet of Jesus (along with others) listening to Him teach.

Yes, dinner is important. We need to eat. However we will not starve to death if we miss a meal.

 Jesus was only with them a little while longer and He wanted to be sure that His followers received all He had to share with them.

Jesus loved Martha. He only wanted the best for her. Just as He does for us today.

When you read the Bible, especially the New Testament where Jesus speaks (the words will be in red), pay close attention to the phrases or words that are repeated. Park on them for a moment or two. What is God trying to say to you personally? Listen for His voice.

I guarantee you that when you hear Him, like the members of my church family, you too will shout out “Say it again!”