Open/Openness

<<accessible, frankness>>

There should be honesty and transparency in our dealings with others, although obviously some information is private and not for public disclosure.  The Bible tells us to speak truthfully yet with love (Eph 4:15). Whatever we do or say should be motivated by love – wanting the best for the other person – not with any malicious intent or with masks hiding ulterior motives.

Even as Jesus opened physically deaf ears, we need Him to open our spiritual ears so we can hear “What the Lord says unto His servant” throughout the day, and especially when reading the Bible. By asking the Holy Spirit to illuminate the Scriptures our spirit can be fed (Josh 5:14; 1 Sam 3:9; Ps 119:18). Obedience is the logical response to the direction given.

We should also listen to and consider the advice of others, specifically those who are mature, learning from their experiences what pitfalls to avoid and the good points to incorporate into your life. Likewise, view any given situation without prejudge, for those with open minds have the possibility to consider new approaches as “It is folly to discard a matter before you have even heard it”; after hearing different ideas you can analyse and choose your response from a logical and informed position (Prov 10:14, 18:13).

Pray that your spiritual eyes are open to see God working for you in ways that are not visible in the natural (Gen 50:20; 2 Kgs 6:17). Often, when consumed with trials and problems in life, we are oblivious to the Lord’s provision and presence (Gen 21:19; Num 22:31; Lk 24:31,45).

In the Bible the heavens were termed ‘open’ on several occasions – indicating an unrestricted glimpse into the spirit realm that, although real, is beyond our visual comprehension (Mt 3:16; Act 7:56, 10:11).  

When the Book of Life is opened, will my name appear in it? (Rev 20:12-15).

Paul asked for prayer that whenever he opened his mouth, words would be given him to boldly declare the gospel (Eph 6:19). The Lord’s word in the OT was, “Open wide your mouth and I will fill it” (Ps 81:10). This implies that if we step out in faith at the Lord’s prompting, He will give us the words to speak (Ex 4:15, 19:6,7; Ezek 3:4).

Jesus taught that through persistent praying and action (knocking) the obstacle or door (currently shutting off what is desired) will be opened (Lk 11:9). God opens and shuts doors of opportunity, it is up to us to respond and walk through them in response to His invitation (1 Cor 16:9; Rev 3:7,8,20). By our attitude we can be open, welcoming and sensitive to His Spirit or hard, resistant and closed.