For the time will come when they will not tolerate sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, will multiply teachers for themselves because they have an itch to hear something new. They will turn away from hearing the truth and will turn aside to myths. 2 Timothy 4:3-4 HCSB
I have had chronic problems with my ears and have had difficulty hearing for years. As a child I had frequent ear infections. At the age of 21 I had my first ear operation. Since that time I have had three additional operations on my left ear to improve my hearing. If it were not for the hearing aids that I wear in both ears, I would not be able to hear very well. Some people have accused me of having “selective hearing” instead of “hard hearing,” indicating that instead of not hearing someone I select what I want to hear.
The concept of “selective hearing” was also prevalent in Paul’s day. He said that the people did not want to hear sound doctrine and teaching; instead they wanted to hear something that would make them feel good. In today’s culture we have some “feel good” or “prosperity” preachers who only preach what people want to hear. Crowds seem to flock to their churches because they are hearing what they desire and would like to believe.
Challenge: What are you iching to hear? Do you have “selective hearing?” Attend a church where the truth of God’s Word is properly taught and proclaimed. Look for ways to be a better listener and listen to the needs of those around you.
Note: Last week while my mother was in the hospital, my oldest son, Nathan, was kind enough to design and send out the daily devotions that my youngest son, Jonathan, wrote in my absence. Please continue to remember my mother in your prayers.