HOW DO WE LISTEN TO GOD?
In our world today and the busyness of life, it is difficult to find a moment of peace and even more challenging to find the time to go to a quiet place and focus on God. However, the scriptures are filled with prayers, songs, stories, and miracles that demonstrate God power and His desire to communicate with His people. But in order to hear what God is saying to us, we have to learn to listen.
In 1 Kings 19, we learn how God communicated with Elijah. First came the strong violent wind, then an earthquake, and then a fire, but God was not in any of these. God chose to speak with a still small voice or gentle whisper.
So in order to hear God’s voice, we must quiet our hearts to listen. What does this mean? Well, let’s think about the main thing we can do in order to listen.
Then a great and powerful wind tore the mountains apart and shattered the rocks before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake. After the earthquake came a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper. 1 Kings 19:12
ELIMINATE THE DISTRACTIONS
Let’s face it; we live in a world filled with noise. Almost everywhere we go, and with everything we do, our minds are being subjected and oftentimes overwhelmed with images and sounds. Rarely do families have quiet evenings together without the sounds of the television or cell phone, or other media devices. Seeking a quiet place to spend with God is not easy, but it can be done. If you take all the letters in the word “LISTEN”; you also have all the letters for the word “SILENT”.
SO HOW DO WE LISTEN TO GOD?
First, we must be intentional in our focus which means that our time and calendar must reflect our heart’s desire. This means setting a regular time each day to get alone with God. This can be at home, on a walk, in your car, in the morning or evening, or whatever works best for you. Personally, I enjoy a daily walk sometimes it’s in the morning and other times in the evening. The most important thing is to find what works best for you and your family dynamic.
Second, we must listen with an open heart and attitude. This means opening our hearts to God’s guidance and instruction and being willing to obey. Just like some of the stories from the prophets of the Old Testament. God brings favor to an attitude that surrenders to what He has planned, rather than a selfish pursuit.
Finally, we must trust that God has a message that is personal, and for our provision, protection and purpose. This means leaning into God during difficult financial or emotional days, as well as joyous or rewarding days. We must realize that God loves us and is the only one that can sustain us, and will provide for our every need. Putting our trust in Him demonstrates a listening and willing heart and ultimately reflects our love for Him. When we listen and obey we discover that life is full of promise and purpose and we become more confident in God’s plan for our lives.
“Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart.” Jeremiah 29:12-13
By Donna Lindquist
