When God Speaks

When God speaks, I immediately visualize Moses at the burning bush with an audible James Earl Jones voice in direct conversation with Moses. However, we know that God chooses to speak to us through many forms: through His Word, through the preaching and teaching from pastors and teachers, through other believers and through His Holy Spirit. In fact the common denominator of each form is the Holy Spirit who is our constant companion, counselor, teacher and our comforter. We understand that as believers the Holy Spirit lives within each one of us and who is our guide on this daily journey.

There are times when I began to fidget and feel uncomfortable, and it’s not because I just drank a Big Gulp. I feel restless and unsettled as if there is something undone or that needs attention. I become anxious and my thoughts are excited and chaotic like kids in a packed Scooby-Doo Bounce House. I cannot concentrate, I am easily distracted, and it even affects my sleep. God is speaking. I am feeling conviction. Sometimes I immediately recognize his voice, listen and obey. Other times, it takes me awhile and I wrestle with the message God wants me to attend to. That’s about as comfortable as sitting on a tack through one of my sermons.

When God speaks to me in this way, I have responded in many natural ways: to ignore it and hope it goes away, to become defensive, to justify myself, to attack others (mostly in my own thoughts), or go to my Nothing Box (ask a TNTer). But when I quiet my spirit in humility and listen…God speaks. My thoughts settle and focus and I find peace, direction, forgiveness, love and encouragement. The power of God who spoke into existence all living things, our world, and the vast expanse of space is the same God speaking directly to me. Wow! No wonder it makes me feel a little uncomfortable.

God is speaking to you. I am not the only one God speaks to in this way, and I know God is calling out to you, trying to get your attention with a specific message for you. God is speaking and it’s uncomfortable. If this is you today, I invite you to simply let your guard down, listen and respond. When God speaks it is loving and powerful, and if we respond appropriately it will keep our hearts, minds, spirit and daily activity on the right path for our journey.

But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. 27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. John 14:26,27