Time share...

During a recent phone conversation, I found myself quite frustrated.  Those who know me best realize that it usually takes awhile for frustration to become an issue for me.  I admit this was an exception. 

The person with whom I was conversing is genuinely kind and loving.  They care about others in authentic and generous ways.  It's just that...well...they didn't stop talking...and had difficulty listening.  As we addressed the present task, I tried to respond to their previous details...only to realize nothing I had said was heard.  The individual continually changed the subject, shared more details, repeated previous details and continued to talk...incessantly.  As my schedule eventaully required ending the conversation, I politely told the individual that I needed to go.  The individual continued talking with no response to my situation.  Once more, I said I had to go because someone was at the door.  The individual seemed shocked that my phone time had to end. 

After the conversation, I was very annoyed.  It seemed that I had only been a sounding board.  Nothing I said was heard.  Nothing.  The individual had a need for my assistance in some matters.  But there was no need to listen to me.  I began to analyze and, yes, even criticize the situation in my frustration.  Then it hit me.

I wonder if God ever feels this way.  How many times do we tell Him about our wants, needs or plans...without listening to what He says?  How many times do we seemed "shocked" when He doesn't seem to answer our requests, demands or plans the way we thought He should?  Why are we more prone to incessantly talk without intimately listening? 

There is no question that God desires for us to talk to Him.  Yet, as in any healthy relationship, it is important to listen to those we love.  He listens.  He loves.  He cares. He knows.  May our relationship with Him be so precious and meaningful that we make time to listen...truly listen...to our Heavenly Father.  He has much to share with us, too.♥~thl

"Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations.  I will be exalted in the earth."  Psalm 46: 10