I Can’t Hear
Sometimes, the hardest voice to hear is God’s. People think I never have a problem hearing from God, but that’s not true. I can think of three reasons why I can’t hear God’s voice sometimes:
- God does not scream. His voice does not drown out all the other sounds in my life. Worries explode to get my attention. Fear roars attempting to intimidate me. Lies can be deafening as they strive to deceive me. Temptation flatters me with bells and whistles trying to entice me. While all of these noises are seeking center stage in my life, God is whispering hope, love, and truth in the background. I just don’t choose to listen to Him.
- God does not speak to me until I am ready to listen. God is not the obnoxious person who gives advice when I could care less. His personal words to me are too valuable to be wasted when I have an arrogant attitude. It has been my experience that He speaks specific instructions to calm my soul when I am humble. I don’t know about you, but humility does not come natural to me.
- God chooses to remain silent. I can’t make Him speak to me. All I can do is place myself in a position to hear from Him. When this happens, it is important that I remember who He is. I can’t get bitter because He is not responding to me. It is important for me to continue doing the things I have heard Him say in the past as I wait on Him. It is vital that I practice faith when God is being silent.
Fortunately, I have moments when God speaks. It is intoxicating!
The first time I remember sensing God speaking to me (not with an audible voice…that has never happened to me) was when I was 12. I remember sitting in a metal folding chair becoming aware of my sinfulness. I felt guilt, but I also felt certain God would forgive me if I trusted that Jesus died for my sins. I remember clearly thinking/hearing “Just trust Christ.” I did. Instantly, there was a warm presence that entered my heart. I knew God had spoken to me and I believed what He said. He forgave my sins.
Ever since then, I have wanted to hear God’s voice. I must be honest. I have not always liked what He had to say. At times I have argued, doubted, and flat out not believed. But each time, He has remained patient with me.
I am still learning to listen. It is a skill I have gotten better at, but still have a long way to go. I am learning to respond as the psalmist when he wrote…
My heart has heard you say, “Come and talk with me.” And my heart responds, “Lord, I am coming.” (Psalm 27:8)
I am not special. You can talk with God too. Choose to listen to Him. Humble yourself and be willing to wait. When you draw near to Him, He will draw near to you.
Here is a song that encourages me. May it encourage you too.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iq5URsXbKXs
3hats1life.com 