“I sure wish God would talk to me. It doesn’t feel like I’m doing anything for him. And I wonder where He is or if I did something,” my friend confided in me. I listened to her confusion, frustration, and doubts about God and her capabilities. I have been in this place in my life, and I’m sure some of you are there right now.
Know the Truth
Serving God and Jesus can be very confusing, especially when you read a great Bible story or hear a miraculous testimony of a conversion of God freeing someone from the stronghold of drugs, alcohol, or toxic way of life. In our human condition we often categorize people and experiences as more or less important depending upon our definitions, understanding, experiences. But God has no grandchildren or favorites.
God tells us, “I will be your Father, and you will be my sons and daughters, says the LORD Almighty.” (2 Cor. 6:18, NLT)
Whoever is of God hears the words of God. John 8:47 ESV
Because we are the sons and daughters of God, we are filled with the spirit of Christ at salvation. We hear the voice of God through the voice of Jesus as they are three in one. Jesus tells us, “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.” John 10:27, ESV
All of these truths reveal that if there is any disconnect in communication it comes from us. So, how can we learn to hear from God and Jesus? Let’s start with three action steps.
- We need to grow in a deep personal relationship with them to experience the love and grace from their hearts.
- We need to study God’s word and follow Christ’s ways and example of keeping God first.
- We must be willing to work with Jesus and do whatever is required of us to become Christ like.
As we work with Jesus and become transformed, our mind and heart become more aware of the many ways God and Jesus talk to us every day. We began to see God in all the good things. We become aware of how much the Holy Spirit guides us every day in our responsibilities and tasks. Let’s take a quick look at seven ways God talks to us.
How God Speaks to Us
- Nature: God reminds us every day of new beginnings in a sunrise. He gives us a glimpse of his vast wisdom and knowledge and all that is to come as we look at the galaxies in the night sky. God shows us his provision in how he takes care of the birds. He shows us many shades of beauty in all the colors of nature. Through nature God speaks to us, we just have to take the time to be still and hear his promises.
For what can be known about God is plain to them, because God has shown it to them. For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. (Rom. 1:19-20, ESV)
- The Bible: I’m so grateful God gave us the Bible to study and discover all that God wants to reveal to us. No matter how many times I read the Bible or a single verse, when I ask God to show me what he wants me to see he reveals a new revelation. Ask God to speak to you through his word. Ask him questions. No one can promise that God will answer right away or in an audible voice. However, look for his answers as you pray, study God’s word, or take time to be silent. The Bible is God’s holy inspired word and he’s just waiting to show you his heart and ways.
For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing the soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. (Heb. 4:12, NIV)
For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope. (Rom. 15:4, NIV)
- Prayer: Prayer is the umbilical chord of our mind, heart, and soul to God. Our prayer are a conversation with God and Jesus anytime we want to speak with them. We are instructed to pray at all time, or talk with God and Jesus at all times. He hears our prayers, but that doesn’t mean He will do what we want or say. Prayer is also part of the armor of God that guides, strengthens, and protects us.
The eyes of the Lord watch over those who do right, and his ears are open to their prayers. (1 Peter 3:12, NLT)
4. Dreams: throughout history God has spoken to many people in dreams. Do not get caught up in analyzing dreams. But you can always test them to see if they are from God which follow his heart and character or if they are from the evil one. Be careful not to put God into a box because he can talk to you in whatever he wants to.
5. The Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit guides us, comforts, convicts, intercedes, and empowers us. (John 14:26, Acts 1:8, 2 Cor. 3:17-18) When we get promptings to do anything good, why can’t this be God talking to us. God tells us all good things come from him (James 1:17), therefore, whatever good we are prompted to do is of God. My friend who struggles to hear God’s voice has the gift of service. When I asked her why she helps people and where the idea comes from, she smiled and answered God. God is always talking to her and she obeys him with her service to others, but she didn’t see the connection until I asked the question.
6. Wise Counsel: When Jesus began his ministry, he didn’t call one disciple, he called twelve. Jesus was our example of going to God first but also of working with other people to share his message. In our imperfect human condition, we all have blind spots and need the help of wise counsel. Let us follow the example of Christ to seek wise counsel in the confirmation of God’s ways.
Let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance. (Prov. 1:5, NLT)
7. Past Experiences: Every person can think of a lesson they have learned from their past. As Christ’s disciple, we can also think of a time when Jesus brought us a revelation that changed our mind or decision. The reason for many of the festivals in the Old Testament was to remind God’s people of His faithfulness. If you are struggling to hear God, take time to look back at your past and write down the times God spoke to you through his word, other people, a song, sermon, or friend. Never forget the faithfulness of God in your past.
Only be careful and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them fade from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and their children after them. (Deut. 4:9, NLT)
God Speaks to His Children, Look for Him and Listen
God created you with your unique looks, personality, talents, and quirks. He knows you inside and out. He’s never surprised by you, nor does his value and love for you ever change. Not everyone will hear God in a particular way. Each person must work with Jesus to know how God and Jesus talks to them. God’s greatest desire is to dwell with us on earth and for eternity. Live in God’s truths that He hears you and talks to you. Begin your day expecting to hear from Him as you watch the sunrise!
