The Imitation of Christ. Day 9: Listening to God's Voice. Book 3. Chapter 1-3

Day 9: Listening to God's Voice (Book 3, Chapter 1-5). God is always speaking—but we're too distracted to listen by noise, vanity, or even good things. Quiet your hearts so we can truly hear and act on God’s voice.

Ch. 1: Christ speaks within to the faithful soul. Truly blessed are the ears that listen, not to a voice making noise outside, but to one that teaches the truth within.

• Blessed are the eyes that are closed to externals but wide open to what is within. Shut the door of your senses so that you can hear what the Lord God speaks in you. [Put away/turn off your phone!]

Ch. 2: Truth speaks within without noisy chatter. Prophets...can pronounce the words but not bestow the spirit. They speak most beautifully but if you are silent they do not cause the heart to burn. They show the way but you give strength to walk it.

Ch. 3: God's word must be heard with humility. Many listen to the world more readily than to God. Write my words on your heart. [Act on what you know today.]

• God usually visits his elect in 2 ways: Temptation and consolation. By rebuking their vices and by encouraging their virtue.
• I am nothing. I have nothing. I can do nothing. You alone are good, righteous and holy. You can do everything. You offer everything. You feel everything.
• How can I bear with myself in this wretched life unless you comfort me with your mercy and grace.

• Free online copy of The Imitation of Christ.

• Daily Reading by Fr. Mike Schmitz.

• Excerpts from The Imitation of Christ.

• Ch. 4: 

• Ch. 5: