MARCH 26 – The Power of Listening
3-Year-Bible Reading: Proverbs 13:1–2; Judges 10-12
//
//
________________________________________
“A wise son hears his father’s instruction, but a scoffer does not listen to rebuke. From the fruit of his mouth a man eats good, but the desire of the treacherous is for violence.” — Proverbs 13:1–2 (ESV)
“Then the Spirit of the Lord came upon Jephthah, and he passed through Gilead and Manasseh and passed on to Mizpah of Gilead; and the people of Gilead went out to make war against the Ammonites.” — Judges 11:29–30 (ESV)
“And the Lord delivered the men who had defeated him into the hand of the Israelites, and they struck them with a very great slaughter.” — Judges 12:7 (ESV)
________________________________________
Ever feel like people keep telling you what to do, but you just want to do your own thing? Teens today are constantly pulled between advice from parents, teachers, friends, and even social media. Proverbs 13:1–2 reminds us that listening—really listening—to wisdom changes the outcome of our lives. The story of Jephthah in Judges 10–12 shows that listening to God’s guidance and being willing to lead with courage can turn a weak situation into victory. On the other hand, ignoring instruction can lead to unnecessary struggle or conflict. Life can be full of “Ammonites” that challenge you, whether they’re tests, friendships, or tough decisions—but listening to the right guidance positions you to overcome.
Learning to listen isn’t just about hearing words—it’s about choosing the wisdom that builds you up, protects you, and leads you forward.
________________________________________
THINK ABOUT IT
1. Who’s Speaking Into Your Life? Are you listening to voices that help you grow, or to ones that pull you into trouble?
2. Courage in Obedience: Jephthah obeyed God and stepped up as a leader. What is one situation where you need courage to do the right thing, even if it feels risky?
3. The Outcome of Listening: How does listening to wise advice affect your relationships, school life, and future plans? Can you think of a time when listening—or ignoring—had a big impact?
________________________________________
BOTTOM LINE
The choice to listen wisely shapes your path, empowers your decisions, and positions you for victory.
________________________________________
PRAYER
Heavenly Father, thank You for giving me guidance through Your Word and through the people You place in my life. Help me to hear Your voice above all others and to act with courage and wisdom, even when it’s hard. Teach me to choose listening over ignoring, so that I can walk in victory and reflect Your truth in every part of my life. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.