007 - Ears to Hear

Ears to Hear: What the Spirit is Saying

Revelation 3:22 concludes a powerful message to the churches with this poignant challenge:

“He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.”

Take a moment to let that sink in. The Spirit of God is speaking—not just to individuals, but to the church as a whole. And yet, the call to hear is personal: “He who has an ear...”

Listening to the Spirit

It’s striking how often Jesus emphasized the importance of hearing. Throughout His ministry, He repeatedly said, “He who has ears to hear, let him hear.” Clearly, hearing isn’t just about having functioning ears; it’s about being attuned to God’s voice, ready to listen and respond.

Revelation 3:22 reminds us that the Spirit is actively speaking to the church even now. The question is, are we listening?

The Competing Voices

Let’s be honest: churches today are full of voices. Some are well-meaning, offering advice, direction, and plans. Others may be louder, more critical, or self-centered. But not every voice reflects what the Spirit is saying.

It’s vital to distinguish between human wisdom and divine revelation. The Spirit speaks truth, life, and guidance that align perfectly with God’s Word. But if we don’t know His voice, we risk being led by the noise instead of the Shepherd.

Knowing the Father's Voice

In John 10:27, Jesus said, “My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.” This is the essence of what it means to walk with Christ: hearing His voice, knowing it’s Him, and responding with obedience.

As His bride—the Church—we are called to this intimate relationship with our Shepherd. He is still speaking to His people, leading us, refining us, and calling us into deeper communion.

But hearing His voice doesn’t happen by accident. It requires intentionality:

• Time in Scripture – His Word is the foundation for discerning His voice.
• Prayer and Stillness – Quieting the noise of life helps us tune in to what the Spirit is saying.
• Humility and Obedience – A heart willing to follow is more likely to hear clearly.

The Spirit Speaks to the Church

The Spirit isn’t just speaking to individuals; He’s addressing the Church as His bride. In Revelation 3, the messages to the seven churches are both challenging and encouraging. They reveal Christ’s heart for His people—His desire for purity, faithfulness, and zeal.

As members of His body, we each have a role in hearing and responding to what the Spirit is saying. It’s not enough to simply attend church or hear sermons; we must actively listen for God’s voice and align our lives with His Word.

A Call to Action

So, how can we cultivate ears to hear? Here are a few steps:

Pray for Discernment – Ask God to help you recognize His voice amidst the noise.

Commit to Scripture – The Spirit will never contradict God’s Word. Familiarize yourself with it so you can discern His leading.

Stay Humble – Be open to correction and willing to follow wherever He leads.

Listen Together – Engage in prayer and discussion with other believers, seeking confirmation and unity in what the Spirit is saying.

A Closing Prayer

Lord, give us ears to hear what Your Spirit is saying to the Church. Help us to recognize Your voice above the noise, to listen with open hearts, and to respond with obedience. Refine us as Your bride, and guide us into deeper relationship with You.

May we never take for granted that You are still speaking. Teach us to listen well.

He who has an ear, let him hear.