The Attentive Ear: Cultivating Discernment in an Age of Noise

How easily do we mistake hearing for understanding? How often do we passively absorb information, nodding along while our minds wander, missing the subtle nuances of truth that the Spirit strives to impress upon our hearts? The BYU Studies Symposium, a gathering of scholars and seekers, provides a surprisingly poignant illustration of this struggle—and its remedy—through a brief interview with three young women.

The video, captured during the 50th Anniversary Symposium, features Ashley, Casey, and Katie, freshman students tasked with attending the event by their English teacher. Their initial reaction to the “Brown Bag Lunch” session, a series of essays read aloud, is striking: genuine enjoyment, attentiveness, and a marked preference over previous speaker engagements. One of the young women even confessed to drifting attention during those earlier presentations, but remained fully engaged with the Brown Bag Lunch. This seemingly simple observation holds profound implications for our own scripture study and our participation in the Restoration.

Think for a moment: what does it mean to truly *hear* the words of the prophets? Is it merely to register the phrases, the pronouncements, the directives? Or is it to cultivate an attentive ear, a heart open to receive the Spirit, allowing the words to penetrate the noise of the world and illuminate our understanding? Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf testified, “Listening is not just hearing; it is understanding. It is paying attention to the meaning behind the words.” (Dieter F. Uchtdorf, “Listen to the Still, Small Voice,” General Conference, April 2019).

The prophets and apostles, in their divine calling, are instruments through which the Lord speaks. To dismiss their counsel as mere words is to reject the voice of the Lord himself. The iron rod, as Moroni taught (Moroni 9:26), is an essential guide, but its efficacy depends entirely upon our willingness to *listen*—to truly hear and heed the instruction it provides. This requires an active, engaged participation, a conscious effort to quiet the distractions and invite the Spirit to confirm the truth.

The young women’s experience at the symposium reminds us that even in the midst of academic pursuits and the pressures of youth, a sincere desire for understanding can be kindled. Their teacher recognized the value of exposing them to quality discourse, understanding that the act of listening itself can be transformative. It's a lesson for us all. Are we providing opportunities, both for ourselves and for those we guide, to engage with the words of the Brethren in a spirit of reverence and attentiveness?

Consider the multitude of voices vying for our attention today—the incessant demands of technology, the clamor of social media, the cacophony of worldly opinions. It is in this environment that the ability to discern the voice of the Lord becomes increasingly critical. To truly progress along the iron rod, we must actively cultivate the attributes of patience, humility, and a steadfast commitment to seeking the truth.

Let us strive to emulate the example of these young women, approaching each opportunity to hear the words of the prophets and apostles with an attentive ear and a humble heart. Let us seek to understand the meaning behind the words, and allow the Spirit to confirm the truth in our souls.

What scriptures have strengthened your ability to listen and discern? Share your insights and experiences in the comments below.