Ignition 7 Video Spark DevosSample

Why Is It Hard to Hear God’s Voice?

We all struggle sometimes to feel connected to God. At one time or another, most of us have probably wondered, “Why is it so difficult to hear the voice of God?”

First, a word of encouragement. Don’t worry! God is constantly speaking into our lives, even when it feels like we can’t hear him. This is not just feel-good talk. God doesn’t abandon his kids. He is speaking.

Then why does it sometimes feel like we can’t hear him? Maybe it is because we forget or overlook how God speaks to us… what his voice sounds like. Psalm 119:105 NLT says, “Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.” When the writer is talking about God’s word here, he’s talking about the scriptures—the Bible. Scripture is a primary method by which God talks to each of us. So if you’re feeling lost—like God’s not speaking to you—begin with the scriptures. He is speaking to you right now in those pages.

Of course, the Bible can be an intimidating book. Where should we start? Well, try the gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John). The story of Jesus’ physical life on earth is found in these four books. Check out reading plans online or talk to a pastor or Christian mentor. There’s lots of ways to dive into God’s Word.

Another way to experience God’s voice is through speaking with him personally through prayer. Ask him your hard questions. Tell him your fears and frustrations. He can handle it and he will speak to you. Sometimes it will be like a whisper and you will have to listen very carefully. Sometimes it will be loud and clear, showing you where you should go or what you should do.

Sometimes we don’t hear God’s voice because everything else around us is just too loud. Our lives are filled with lots of noise distracting us. Social media updates. Incoming texts. Television shows. We fill our heads with entertainment, busyness, and distraction. Though staying entertained and busy are not necessarily bad things, we can often lose our focus on God’s voice in our lives.

So take time to reduce the noise. Refocus on God. Pray to him. Read his voice in scripture. Ask him speak to you in the secret place he has set apart for you. He will speak.