Protocol For Hearing God

Ezra stood on the platform in full view of all the people.  When they saw him open the book, they all rose to their feet.  Then Ezra praised the Lord, the great God, and all the people chanted, “Amen! Amen!” as they lifted their hands.  Then they bowed down and worshiped the Lord with their faces to the ground. [Nehemiah 8.5-6]

There are a couple of things in this passage that we today might learn from.  Perhaps we might understand a protocol for hearing God.

First, when the Book of the Law was opened by Ezra in front of the people, they rose to their feet.  No doubt, this was a response to the holiness of God and His Word as recorded in the Book of the Law.  While I strongly think best to avoid worshiping a book, I must concede, even encourage, or better yet demand, that we show the highest regard and respect for God's Word!  I know I sound two-faced here, but we must get in our minds that we are not to worship a book, but we are certainly right in worshiping The LORD of the universe as we perceive His Word being spoken (albeit read from a book).  There is a difference.

Then, there is a further correct response after we rise before God.  While we are not told what Ezra actually 'said' in praise of God, we are told that it was 'praise' and the people vocally responded, "Amen!  Amen!"  Along with their vocal response, the people lifted their hands.

Finally, as yet another progression in response to God's Word, the people bowed and worshiped with their faces to the ground.  The only picture that comes to my mind is the position most associated in modern times with the Muslim prayer position.

While this all may sound a little 'over the top' I think it very much makes a clear statement with two messages: one is to God, and that message is that He is Supreme LORD, and the other is to man, that we unashamedly offer our devotion to the LORD.

Father, please help me to see how this protocol for hearing You speak might apply to me today!