Ears that hear or itching ears?

"Tell me something that I don't already know."

Don't many of us think we have more knowledge than we do, particularly in spiritual matters? 1 Corinthians 8:1

"I've read the Bible for years."

Hopefully, that person has learned to NOT twist the Scriptures to their own destruction 2 Peter 3:16 but is a doer of the word and not a hearer or reader only. Matthew 7:24-27; James 1:22

If we're honest observers, are there those who HAVE read the Bible and think that their superficial knowledge and understanding is enough? 1 Corinthians 3:1-3

"Oh, I've read that story. I'm good."

The Lord Jesus Christ is quoted as having said some things about ears --

Who has ears to hear, let that one hear. Matthew 13:9, 43

Take care what you listen to. By your standard of measure it will be measured to you; and more will be given you besides. For whoever has, to him more will be given; and whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken away from him. Mark 4:24-25

Let these sayings sink down into your ears: for the Son of man [Jesus] shall be delivered into the hands of men. Luke 9:44

Paul wrote --

Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. Romans 10:17

For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; 2 Timothy 4:3

And from among your own selves men will arise, speaking perverse things to draw away the disciples after them. Acts 20:30

How can we have ears that hear what the Spirit is saying? 1 Timothy 4:1; Revelation 2:7

How can we NOT have ears that want to be told what we want to hear so that we live in whatever ways we want?

Suggestions:

Tremble at the real word of the Lord. Isaiah 66:2

Be astonished at the Lord's doctrine because He has authority in heaven and on earth. Matthew 7:28-29; 28:18

Receive the word with humility and gentleness. James 1:21

Study to show yourself approved to God the Father, correctly interpreting the word of truth. 2 Timothy 2:15

How to interpret the Bible if you're a Bible believer? Look at ALL of the Scriptures to find out the complete truth about a subject that you study. Acts 17:11; 1 Corinthians 10:11; Romans 15:4; 2 Timothy 3:14-17

Believe that through a personal relationship with Jesus, John 1:11-13; 3:16-17; 6:37 you have access to God the Father John 14:6 through the Holy Spirit. Ephesians 2:18

Trust that you WILL be guided into all truth John 16:13; 1 John 2:20, 27 IF you're not afraid to hear it in love. John 8:45; Galatians 4:16; Ephesians 4:15

Your thoughts?

R. Jason