HAVE YOU HEARD THE VOICE OF GOD

 

Tuesday, January 3, 2023

 

HAVE YOU HEARD THE VOICE OF GOD

 

John 12:28-30

28 [Jesus prayed] Father, glorify thy name. Then came there a voice from heaven, saying, I have both glorified it, and will glorify it again.

29 The people therefore, that stood by, and heard it, said that it thundered: others said, An angel spake to him.

30 Jesus answered and said, This voice came not because of me, but for your sakes.

 

          Many of us would like to hear the voice of God, we think. But what would that voice sound like and would it encourage or terrify us? Angels were sent to deliver God’s announcements and they were no less terrifying.

 

          Moses heard the voice of God emanating from a burning bush – and it called his name. The miracle of a bush that burned without being consumed drew him from his own self revery to a place where he, Moses, was not the center of importance. In fact, Moses learned that his true significance resided in his relationship with God, whatever form that may take.

 

          In those agonizing days just prior to the cross, Jesus prayed to be glorified and God answered with what sounded like thunder. Even now, when it thunders loudly, we think of God and wonder what He is trying to say to us.

 

          Psalm 2:4 tells us that the rebellious may hear God laugh if they listen carefully but would not recognize that voice. So, it is with those who have determined to rip away the restraints of God. Rebellion deafens them.

 

          Elijah complained to God that he had been abused in his service. God sent him forth to stand upon a mountain as He passed by. There was first a strong wind that tore the rock apart followed by an earthquake and a great fire. Finally Elijah heard a still small voice. And what did the whisper of God say? “What are you doing here, Elijah?” [See 1 Kings 19:12] Why are you here whining when you should be firmly proclaiming?

 

          Those who truly desire to hear from God will hear Him. But God is a Spirit, and it is the spirit that will hear. Like young Samuel, you may mistake that voice for another but if you listen carefully, God will make Himself known.

 

 Isa 30:21

21 And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This is the way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left.

 

Ah, Lord God! How we need to hear your voice clearly in these last days but fear to hear it. Speak to our spirit with Thy still small voice. AMEN