Wait. Gain.

Our guest speaker for last weekend, Reverend David Slinger, shared an important thought with us: “When God speaks, then we do.”

In postmodern church culture, we often throw this clause into reverse. We first decide to do a number of projects (without having asked God to help us know what to do), then we ask God to speak a word of approval over the things we have set into motion.

Have we lost the art of listening for the instructing voice of God? Have we lost the desire to wait on Him?

Pastor David noted that it is likely Abram was already familiar with the voice of God. When faced with the instruction to leave his hometown, Abram immediately obeyed and left (Genesis 12:1-5). Canon does not record any sort of debate between Abram and the voice of God. It seems that Abram knew God’s voice well, and was therefore quick to trust and obey His word.

On this side of the cross, some of us are fortunate to have the written word of God readily available. We are able to read what God has said concerning much of our day-to-day living, and therefore we are without excuse in the moments we move without considering what God has already said. We hear God’s voice as we read His word.

In addition to reading, though, we can be hearers of God’s voice by listening for the promptings and direction of the Holy Spirit. Jesus said: “When the Spirit of Truth comes, He will guide you into all that is true. He will not speak of His own will, but he will speak whatever He hears and He will declare to you the things that are to come.” (John 16:13) We hear God’s voice as His Spirit speaks to our hearts.

I am listening to what God is saying! He speaks shalom to His people if they convert to Him wholeheartedly and refuse to relapse into foolishness. (see Psalm 85:8)