Sometimes I think we’re more accustomed to noise than we are to quiet. The loud must be important. We think that if it is said often enough, it must be valid. In fact, our culture is so tuned into hearing everyone’s opinions that even competing views are now considered relative truths.
Although we might often listen through the noise and the static in our lives- I still wonder how much of the quiet truth we actually absorb. Sure, we might hear it, but…
Listening to a still, small voice doesn’t always feel powerful.
Clear, simple answers don’t always feel sufficient.
The more straightforward a word, the harder it is for us to find it relevant. We tend to overcomplicate things, including the Word of God and the truth.
Before the better-known verse in Romans 1 about our being without excuse, we find this truth:
“what can be known about God is plain to them,
because God has shown it to them.”
–Romans 1:19
We’re included in that “them” as those who have been wicked and ungodly. Even as those who are saved and redeemed, we know that:
“God is not the author of confusion, but of peace.”
-1 Corinthians 14:33
There’s a reason that even children can understand the Word of God, listen, and obey. A part of childlike faith is listening in that way –without confusion or complication. We are to take Him at His Word: simply and clearly.
Grandiose speeches and lengthy explanations are not methods God uses. The Lord does not need to compensate with volume or bombardment to make His Word more relevant or true for us. His Word, like Himself, is sufficient, all-powerful, and here with us for our good. Believe it.
My prayer and challenge lately is that when we hear that still, small voice, we’ll listen and obey with as much clarity and simplicity as the Word He has given us.
This post is being shared on: #Thought-Provoking Thursday, #DanceWithJesus, #LLMLinkup and #LifeGivingLinkup.
Oh, my! This post spoke so…(pardon the pun!)…loudly to me today! 🙂 I NEEDED this. There are so many “voices” in this life, and when we find ourselves at a crossroads in dire need of Holy Spirit direction, it can be so hard to hear His precious, still, small voice amidst all the clamor. I love the verse you shared about God not being the author of confusion…that has been coming to my mind often, in light of a situation my family and I are facing. Thank you for being so faithful to share what God places upon your heart!
Yay, Cheryl! I love when His timing is obvious and precious! Amen. So glad He is with you and remains consistent and clear in the situation you are facing. Blessing to you as you listen so faithfully and thank you so much for the encouragement!
Bethany, I’m thinking right now of a few straightforward answers I’ve heard from God–most often in the quiet of my bathroom! You’re right … truth might be hard to hear, but it’s not complicated. Also … it warmed my heart when I glanced to the sidebar and saw Chuck Swindoll in your Twitter feed. I grew up listening to him and have been blessed by his ministry as an adult. 🙂
HA. Lois- He does seem to speak loudly in there, doesn’t He? : )
And yes, Swindoll’s teaching has been such a blessing to my husband, myself, and my in-laws! I believe his was a church formative in leading them to the Lord. Love love listening to him! : ) And love finding out someone else shares in the appreciation!! Blessings sweet friend!
This is such a peaceful and helpful post for thinking about guidance and the way God speaks to His children. I struggle with the need for simple listening and quiet pondering in His presence. Thanks for presenting this in such an uncluttered way.