When we think of Almighty God of the Universe speaking to us, one may imagine that of a loud tumultuous voice speaking down from Heaven. In fact, the Children of Israel in the Old Testament were afraid to speak with God and asked Moses to go before God on their behalf.
Exodus 20:19, (NKJV): Then they said to Moses, “You speak to us, and we will hear; but let not God speak with us, lest we die.”
It seems that the Children of Israel had forgotten the true nature of God and how He longed to have a relationship with His people. He created us for companionship with Him. Genesis 3:8-9 speaks of God approaching in the cool of the evening to just “hang out” with Adam and Eve. It was ordinary for Adam and Eve to enjoy the followship of Majestic God as they walked around the garden.
The truth of the matter is that God is always speaking, the question is are we listening?
As Christians, we have a tremendous advantage to “hear” from God. He will lead, guide and direct us. He goes before us. We are not limited to hearing from Him just at our bedside prayers.
Foundationally, we have an astounding resource in the Word of God, it is full of direction, examples, advice, wisdom and so much more. There are countless stories that we can learn from and should live by. Likewise, there have been times when I have prayed about a specific issue and seeking direction that may not be so clear; I open the Bible and God’s word speaks directly to me and my situation. The Word of God is living and breathing; it is organic.
When God spoke to Elijah, it was in a still small voice.
1 Kings 19:11-13, (NKJV), Then He said, “Go out, and stand on the mountain before the Lord.” And behold, the Lord passed by, and a great and strong wind tore into the mountains and broke the rocks in pieces before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind; and after the wind an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake, and after the earthquake a fire, but the Lord was not in fire; and after the fire a still small voce.
This still small voice is still speaking to us today. Our Spirit leads us. If we turn off the other voices, get out of our fear and quiet our beings, we can hear from God. We may have a thought that comes to our mind, does it line up with the nature of God? If so, God is speaking.
God may also speak through other people, whether it be a sermon, a friend, an article, or all of the above. Have you experienced an encouraging word from someone or an idea that resonated within? God is speaking. His speaking will never violate His written Word.
God knows when every sparrow falls to the ground, He cares deeply about you. He knows how many hairs are on your head, He is affectionate about your details. Take time today to hear from Him.
If you would like more information about hearing from God, please feel free to contact me at [email protected].
Rhonda L Smart
