You Talkin’ to Me?
You Talkin’ to Me?
The Lord came, stood there, and called as before, “Samuel, Samuel!” Samuel responded, “Speak, for Your servant is listening.” (1 Sam. 3:10)
Is That You, Lord?
Lily Tomlin once said, “Why is it that when we speak to God, we’re said to be praying, but when God speaks to us, we’re said to be schizophrenic?” The world assumes that if you hear God speak, you’re at best a misguided fool and at worst a psychotic killer. Some theologians don’t even believe that God speaks anymore.
God chose not to speak to Eli, the high priest, but to Samuel, an innocent, humble little boy. If God really speaks, how can you increase the chance that He’ll say something to you?
I’m All Ears
For starters, point your satellite in the right direction. You won’t glean God’s wisdom from talk-show hosts and the latest magazine at the checkout counter. God’s written Word is the final word. And the more disciplines you practice in your life, the more conduits to heaven you will have. The Word, prayer, submission, fasting, worship, giving—think of these as channels through which you can hear God speak.
Then make sure there’s nothing between the dish of your heart and the signal. It’s easy for sin to grow up between you and God. Ruthlessly examine your heart, and confess and repent. The adventure awaits—real life doesn’t begin until you hear God speak to you.
Bottom Line
Put yourself in a position to hear God speak each day. Any good relationship is based on good communication.