Isaiah 43:1-2 (NASB) “But now, thus says the Lord, your creator…, “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name; you are Mine!”
Mark 6:31 (NIV) [Jesus] said to them, “come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.”
Whitney Houston was one of the greatest singers who has ever lived. She took songs, such as “I Will Always Love You,” written by Dolly Parton, and made them her own. She gave one of the most memorable and inspirational performances of the Stars Spangled Banner ever. She was known as The Voice.
We have an even more significant Voice who speaks to us to guide and remind us that we belong to Him. Yet, our world is so noisy that it’s hard to hear His Voice. Even our own minds are noisy with to-do lists, worries, distractions and random thoughts. It takes real effort to settle yourself and quiet the internal and external chatter, but it is vital to our soul’s well-being to do so.
When you intentionally listen for God’s voice, you hear Him call you by name, meaning you hear a voice that knows you at the deepest level of your identity. He knows exactly what you need to hear at that moment. As a good Father, His Voice reassures you that you are loved and cared for, and He gives practical wisdom. His voice will convict you when you are wrong and guide you into all truth. His Voice reminds you that you are not alone.
How can you improve your ability to hear God speaking to you?
1) Intentionally get away from the noise by setting aside regular time to quiet your mind & heart.
2) Pray and ask God to help you hear His voice. He longs for you to hear Him and He is constantly speaking.
3) Read the Word of God. It’s amazing how God will guide you to the right message at just the right time. It’s no longer words written on a page for an ancient people, but it’s God’s Word for you right now, in this moment.
Be encouraged that the more you listen to His voice, the greater your ability to hear Him. God’s voice is like no other. Once you’ve heard Him speaking to you, no substitute will do.
Questions for Reflection:
- How can you strengthen your ability to hear God’s voice?
- What do you feel that He saying to you today?
