The Importance of Listening to God in Faith

FLOYD ROGERS

In any healthy relationship, communication must go both ways. This is true not only with people but also in our relationship with God. Many times, we focus on telling God what we need, how we feel, and what we hope for. While speaking to God is important, it is just as important — and often more difficult — to learn how to listen to Him.

Throughout history, God has spoken to His people in many ways, and He still speaks today. The challenge for many believers is not whether God is speaking, but whether we are truly listening. Good communication with God requires both talking and listening. If we only speak and never listen, we miss the wisdom, guidance, and comfort He wants to share.

Listening to God takes patience, humility, and a quiet heart. It may not come easily at first, but it is essential for a strong and growing faith.

You know this, my beloved brothers and sisters. Now everyone must be quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger;

James 1:19

Southern Baptist Convention Calls for Overturn of Same-Sex Marriage Ruling, Reinforces Traditional Christian Teachings

STAFF/VOLUNTEER

At its recent annual meeting in Dallas, the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) approved a resolution asking for the repeal of the 2015 United States Supreme Court decision that legalized same-sex marriage. The resolution was one of several passed by delegates, each designed to reaffirm conservative Christian beliefs about family, gender, and marriage.

The resolution is titled “On restoring moral clarity through God’s design for gender, marriage, and the family.” It is presented as a theological statement, expressing specific views about the created order, marriage, abortion, fertility, family structure, gender identity, sexual orientation, free speech, and miscarriage. A key part of the resolution urges the rejection of court rulings that deny the biological categories of male and female.

Baptist News Global, a U.S.-based religious news outlet, reported that resolutions passed by the Convention are nonbinding. This means they are statements reflecting the beliefs of those in attendance at a particular meeting, rather than enforceable policies. However, the same report noted that there have been growing calls to treat these resolutions as tools for shaping doctrinal positions and influencing political discussions within the denomination and beyond.

Along with the resolution on same-sex marriage, the Convention also adopted statements addressing other social concerns. These included resolutions on the dangers associated with sports betting, a call to ban pornography, and a declaration against the use of abortion pills.

For Christians, especially within Southern Baptist communities, these resolutions reflect ongoing efforts to maintain traditional teachings about family and moral life. The Convention’s position on these issues continues to influence how churches under its banner address topics related to marriage, sexuality, and personal conduct.

While these resolutions do not hold legal authority, they signal the Convention’s continued commitment to specific interpretations of Christian doctrine. These positions may shape conversations in churches, schools, and other religious settings in Canada, particularly among Christians who share similar theological beliefs.

The SBC has seen a larger movement among conservative Christian groups to respond to changes in legal and cultural attitudes toward gender, marriage, and family.

Finding Strength in Solitude with God

FLOYD ROGERS

God often gets us ready for life’s toughest struggles in the quiet, private places of our lives. It’s during these moments alone with him — away from the noise and crowds — that we are strengthened. Spending time reading the Bible, praying, and listening for God’s voice shapes our hearts and removes anything that does not belong in our lives.

In these silent times, God draws us close, building a deep, personal relationship with us. The real fight takes place on our knees in prayer, when no one else is watching. When we learn to face our challenges in these private moments with God, the public victories will follow.

True strength for life’s battles is found in these hidden times with God.

But as for you, when you pray, go into your inner room, close your door, and pray to your Father who is in secret; and your Father who sees what is done in secret will reward you.

Matthew 6:6

The Promise of Christ Against the Antichrist’s Power

AMY TURNER

Many people today worry about the coming of the Antichrist, fearing the evil he will bring into the world, even against those who follow God. Concerns like these have spread anxiety, with some believing the Antichrist’s power will be impossible to resist. But the Bible gives a clear and powerful promise to calm those fears.

In 2 Thessalonians 2:8, it is written that the Lord Jesus will defeat the Antichrist with nothing more than the breath of his mouth, destroying him simply by his presence when he returns. No matter how strong evil may appear, it cannot stand against the power of Christ.

Believers are called to have confidence in this truth. The authority and victory of Jesus over all wickedness is certain.

The Lord is my light and my salvation;
Whom should I fear?
The Lord is the defense of my life;
Whom should I dread?

Psalm 27:1

Finding Peace in Obedience

FLOYD ROGERS

Many people have experienced moments when God made His will clear to them, yet they found reasons to ignore it. They might think, “Yes, I know that’s in the Bible, but those words were written ages ago. Surely, they don’t fit my life today.” But the truth is, God’s Word is timeless. The Bible remains His guide for how we should live — a book of instructions meant to be followed with a willing and joyful heart.

God calls us to obey Him not out of fear or reluctance, but with confidence and hope. Obedience means doing exactly what God asks, at the time He asks, and in the way He instructs. It’s a simple, yet powerful act of trust.

Each of us must consider what God has spoken through His Word that we have yet to surrender. What are you still holding onto that He’s told you to release? True peace and blessing come when we follow Him fully.

If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.

John 14:15