Hearing in Many Ways
“In many ways, God spoke to our father.” Hebrews 1:1
When we have “ears to hear”, when our desire is truly focused on hearing whatever God has to say to our circumstances our yearning, our heart’s cry, we do well to remember that he chooses how and when to speak. Since “His ways are not as our ways, and His thoughts are not as our thoughts”, it is not unusual to find an element of surprise in the ways He chooses to speak.
Timing often matters = seeing a billboard phrase or hearing a sentence spoken on the radio or noticing something for the first time that has been there all along. Events can occur which confirm God’s voice and purpose. Gideon’s fleece, Moses and the burning bush, the light from heaven to Paul are dramatic biblical examples, but we must not assume drama is God’s hallmark. Elijah sought God’s presence but he was not in the rock-breaking wind, the earthquake, or the fire – he spoke in “a still small voice” to Elijah’s need.
Internal impressions, especially when you aren’t actually seeking them in the moment, often signal God’s voice. If you are then unsure, ask your Father for confirmation in a different way. It’s not “doubt” to be careful – our enemy is a deceiver. His is more likely to be an insistent raised voice. Following your peace is another way to hear God’s will. Jesus gives peace, while Satan offers confusion. When peace settles on you, very often you have heard the voice of God! But note this: relief at believing you’ve gotten “what you wanted” is not the same as “peace that passes understanding”. When your desires remain thwarted, and yet peace reigns in your heart – that’s God’s presence?
We are careful to stay in fellowship and listen to the wise counsel of friends who know us if we want to hear from God and see him move in our circumstances. Many times in my life I have suffered frustration wheel spin until I asked for prayer and wisdom from those who love me.
Dreams and visions can be vivid and very personal ways of hearing God – the Bible is filled with examples – Joseph, the Old Testament dreamer, and Joseph, the husband of Mary, are good examples. Around the world now, Muslims are receiving dreams and vision from Jesus in which he appears clothed in shining garments and invited them to follow him. These events are building fellowships in forbidden areas as among believers who must be willing to risk death to profess Jesus.
Prophetic words can come from God’s people, speaking for upbuilding, encouragement, and consolation. Seek to hear the prophetic word and seek to give it to others. It’s one of God’s favorite ways to speak.
Even nature itself speaks- “God’s external power and glory have been clearly perceived in the things that have been made; - “the heavens declare the glory of God and the firmament displays his handiwork”.
When we ask to hear, let us be wise and expectant, attentive, and the “many ways” God enjoys communicating with His family.
Today’s Prayer: “Father, thank you that your ways surpass ours, and that your ways become the desire of our hearts as we hear and grow toward you in the many ways of your speaking. Give us ears to hear. We delight in you, the Lord of our lives and of all creation.
Today’s Challenge: Determine to allow God’s voice to be manifest to you in any way he wishes. He knows the language of your heart and mind and He will speak to you as you listen, perhaps to be quite astonished and surprised.