In a world filled with constant noise, it can be challenging to hear the quiet voice of God speaking to us. Psalm 85:8 encourages us with these words: “I will hear what God the LORD will speak; for He will speak peace.” As we enter this week, let’s remember to create moments of stillness, tuning our hearts to listen for God’s messages of peace and love.
Back when the telegraph was the fastest way to communicate, a young man applied for a job as a Morse Code operator. The office was filled with applicants and the usual clamor of telegraphs and machines. After sitting for a moment, the young man stood up and walked directly into the employer’s office, where he was hired on the spot. The others were stunned; after all, they had been waiting their turn and were upset that he seemed to have skipped the line.
The employer then explained, “The telegraph was quietly tapping out this message: ‘If you understand this message, come right in. The job is yours.’ Only this young man had been listening attentively enough to hear it.”
In our own lives, there’s a lot of “background noise”—whether it’s our daily responsibilities, social media, or even our own worries. But God’s voice is always there, speaking words of love, guidance, and peace.
Four ways you can tune in and listen to God this week:
1. Start Your Day with the Lord
Begin each morning by dedicating your day to God. Spend time in His Word, reading 2-4 chapters: one from the Old Testament, one from the New Testament, a Psalm, and a Proverb. This approach helps you experience the breadth of God’s story—His wisdom, love, and guidance for every season of life. As you read, ask Him to reveal His heart to you through these scriptures.
2. Be Still and Know
Stillness is powerful. Take a few minutes each day to sit in silence before the Lord. Ask Him to calm your heart, quiet your mind, and open your spirit to hear His voice. This is a time to set aside distractions, center yourself in God’s presence, and simply listen. You may not hear an audible voice, but in this stillness, He often brings peace, direction, or a gentle reminder of His love.
3. Sing Praises with Joy
Praise is a way of bringing our hearts into alignment with God’s goodness. Whether through a worship playlist, hymns, or even singing a simple melody that comes to mind, take time to sing praises to God this week. When we praise, we focus less on our circumstances and more on who God is—His faithfulness, love, and grace. As you sing, let the words sink in, and let your spirit respond to His presence.
4. Journal Your Prayers and Thoughts
Journaling can be a powerful way to record and reflect on what God is speaking into your life. As you go through your day, jot down thoughts, prayers, or any impressions you feel are from God. Looking back on these notes over time can reveal patterns of His guidance and help you notice how He’s been speaking to you in different ways. Journaling can also remind you of His faithfulness when challenges arise.
By incorporating these practices into your week, you’re positioning yourself to hear from God, despite the world’s noise. Just as that young Morse Code operator heard the message amidst the clamor, we too can learn to recognize and respond to God’s voice.
Let this be a week where you find God’s peace, direction, and love speaking clearly to your heart. Listen closely—His messages are often quiet but always filled with life-giving truth. 🌿
Listening Beyond the Noise: Finding God’s Voice in Our Everyday Lives
November 4, 2024