Hearing the Voice of God

Listening

“When he has brought out all his own, he goes on ahead of them, and his sheep follow him because they know his voice.” (John 10:4 N.I.V)

Children are taught to be wary of strangers. They are taught that sweet talking strangers offering sweets and fun can cause them great harm. They are taught to know the face and voice of their parents, close relatives and friends who can tend to their concerns.

While it is good to easily recognize the voices of our relatives, friends and colleagues, the greatest help we can receive is from the Lord because he represents the ultimate good for us. We therefore need to recognize his voice. The voice of the evil one may actually sound loving and good intentioned just like that of our loved ones. We need to develop the required listening skills so that we can be certain of the voice of God.

Just like in communication with other people, we hear more when we minimize distractions and focus on the one speaking. We cannot effectively listen to somebody when we are also listening to the news on television. We cannot listen when we focus our thoughts on ourselves.  We need to focus our mind on God by having quiet times with him in which we turn the world off and concentrate on his Word. Then we will know his voice and be able to follow him. Mary and Joseph, the earthly parents of Jesus heard him,; they were instructed and encouraged.

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“Don't follow any advice, no matter how good, until you feel as deeply in your spirit as you think in your mind that the counsel is wise.” Joan Rivers

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