O Israel, …if you would listen to Me! Psalm 81:8 (NASB)
In learning to study the Word, I saw a method that indicated one should repeat a scripture verse placing emphasis on a different word. So I decided to give it a try. Boy was that an experience with this verse. I’m not starting with O or Israel, because that took me all morning to process! Trust me, it got deep and you don’t have the time.
IF – implies there is a choice to be made. God will not force His will on me or you. We have to choose to be obedient or not.
YOU – directly speaking to an individual or a collective group of people. Since I was reading this, and I’m feeling guilty about not writing…I know this is written to ME. You = Veronica…(insert sigh)..
WOULD – is there a willingness on my part? Will I be obedient in the future? Can I look forward instead of looking back to the past – which can’t be changed, by the way.
ONLY – this could go a couple of ways. ONLY listen to God’s voice – none other. Or He could be saying I just need to trust Him. Can I just do that – without questions, without worrying, without disobedience…If you would ONLY…..
LISTEN – listening is not only done with your ears, your whole person is involved in listening. Be Still….Hear His voice..Let him lead and guide you.
TO – I’ll admit I looked this one up – the definition of to – expressing motion in the direction of a particular location…Go in the direction He tells you. And by YOU, I mean ME!
ME – Only listen to Him…Only God. He’s enough.
God: IF YOU WOULD ONLY LISTEN TO ME.
Me: Speak Lord, your servant is listening- 1 Sam 3: 10