"He who has ears, let him hear!"

 
Elder Paisios the Athonite tells us:

Glory be to God for all things!  He has turned my ear to this often lately.  And again He blesses me to hear. 

Through this new awareness I am learning how often I react to situations and news with anger, frustration, irritation, vengeance, disgust, coarse jesting, and all assorting un-Christian attitude and behavior.  Why, I am not a Christian at all! 

 

This past two weeks I have been mindfully considering two things:

1 - upon waking, and several times a day asking God: "What would you have me accomplish today?  What should be my priority?  Help me to do as You would have me to do!"  and

2 - reminding myself to say to Him, "Thank you!" and "Glory be to God in ALL things!"

 

I can only try to relate how often the Lord has guided, directed, and allowed me joy and peace during this time.  He fixed our long-broken car thru the generosity of other Christians thru Love,INC. 

He led me in being patient at the home repair store, waiting for the clerk to arrive to assist me in finding a replacement toilet.  Through her I met a local property owner who is selling some properties, and he had a new $300+ toilet that he sold to me for $100.  He even delivered it, and shared some of his wisdom about buying properties that are assets. 

Then, when I asked God about providing a treat for the boys (they had been so good), "pizza" came to mind, and I knew where to go.  "Lord,"  I said, "I want to be a good steward of money, and I've had difficulties lately and know I cannot afford to buy it even at this good price they offer!"   Still, I felt God "smile" and nudge me to go anyway.  I walk into the pizza parlor counter, and they gave me one for free!! 

My husband has even been offered a new job where he can come home every night, and which gives hope for a much better work environment.  Glory be to God! 

Do you say "these things do not happen for me!"? 
Are you sure?  Have you asked Him for eyes that will see the marvelous things He wishes to do for you His child?  Have you become His child?  Do you trust in His love for you?  Do you talk to Him... and listen for the answer with your eyes, ears and heart? 

He is a Loving Father, Who only desires His children to seek Him.  While it is true that the rain falls on both the wicked and the good; when we seek His presence in our lives, rowing ourselves closer and closer to Him, He will guide and direct us.  When we see a hill we need not worry, because we trust He knows where He leads us. 

To then receive the teaching of Elder Paisios today from a monk friend of mine, is a blessed confirmation.  May I not grow weary or "bored" with this exercise; but may it instead become a blessed habit for the rest of my life.

Glory be to God!  Worthy is His to be praised!  How does He answer when you ask Him today, "what would You have me to do today, Lord?"