I heard a great message on hearing the voice of the Lord. The scripture came from 1 Samuel 3. We may be new in our faith or have been in our faith for many years. Either way, the Lord communicates to us. He wants to be an active participant in our lives. With God involved, our lives will be full of meaning and purpose.
As I reflect on the scripture, there are three pursuits I consider.
One, allowing God to speak. How often are we unavailable to spend time with God because of hectic schedules? Or, we are consumed with talking to God that we don’t give Him the opportunity to respond? If my days are consumed with tasks, I will intentionally wake up earlier than normal to spend time with God. Or, I will stay up later to spend time with God. God is not too busy for me. At any time, I can call on Him. I have to do my part in making the time.
Two, listening for God to respond. This is not listening for a response that will please us but listening for God’s way and His method. His ways are not like ours. God wants to be involved in everything we do. The more we allow the Lord to speak into our lives, the move we depend on Him. Our dependence on God builds our faith and confidence in His ability.
Three, responding in action. When God speaks, He is calling us to action. His ways will come to past only when we are obedient and do what is according to His plans. It may be challenging and time consuming. But, when we move in action, we are moving in His ways that will impact not only our lives but those around us.
Let us thrive in our days and years by making time to listen to God.