Insert a CD and escape to the calming tones of a tropical rainforest. Push play on your iPod and take a front seat to the tunes of your favorite bands. Plug in your headphones and retreat to another world, a world filled only with the sounds and voices of your choosing. But what happens when all you tune into are your own selections, humming along to the songs of personal preference? What happens when you refuse to take off those headphones and listen to voices of reason?
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
Looking back on your life, what is the worst piece of advice that you received and followed through with?
What is the best piece of advice you received that you regret not following?
In 2 Chronicles 18, two kings strategize to wage war on a common enemy. But before doing so, they seek divine counsel and inquire of several prophets. In what ways do you normally seek help in making life decisions?
Who are you listening to these days? Who do you need to quit listening to? (i.e., Who have you been warned about?)
Read 2 Chronicles 18:1-7. What do you not want to hear, but you know you need to? Who should you be listening to?
What steps could you take to intentionally surround yourself with people to whom you could listen and learn?
MOVING FORWARD
This story from 2 Chronicles illustrates the king of Israel’s refusal to listen and learn. Because he only listened to voices he agreed with, he ended up suffering unfavorable consequences. He failed to realize that what and who you listen to influences what you do. Are you surrounding yourself with positive influences and wise counsel, or are you simply listening to voices that echo your own desires?
CHANGING YOUR MIND
But Jehoshaphat also said to the king of Israel, “First seek the counsel of the LORD.” 2 Chronicles 18:4
Midweek moment – Listen & Learn: Listen Carefully
Insert a CD and escape to the calming tones of a tropical rainforest. Push play on your iPod and take a front seat to the tunes of your favorite bands. Plug in your headphones and retreat to another world, a world filled only with the sounds and voices of your choosing. But what happens when all you tune into are your own selections, humming along to the songs of personal preference? What happens when you refuse to take off those headphones and listen to voices of reason?
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
MOVING FORWARD
This story from 2 Chronicles illustrates the king of Israel’s refusal to listen and learn. Because he only listened to voices he agreed with, he ended up suffering unfavorable consequences. He failed to realize that what and who you listen to influences what you do. Are you surrounding yourself with positive influences and wise counsel, or are you simply listening to voices that echo your own desires?
CHANGING YOUR MIND
But Jehoshaphat also said to the king of Israel, “First seek the counsel of the LORD.” 2 Chronicles 18:4
[all info and questions from www.groupcurriculum.org]