Hearing God in a Chaotic WorldSample

Day 2: The Voice That Matters Most

Yesterday, we talked about how we’re surrounded by voices in this life, like news headlines and TV commercials. These voices try to tell us that it’s important that we listen to what they have to say, but often, they don’t do anything to contribute to our well-being.

With this knowledge in mind, what voices should we make a priority? What voices can offer us the life and hope we’re searching for? We’ll talk about the importance of family and friends tomorrow, but for today, we’re going to talk about the voice that matters most.

Yesterday, we left Elijah on the mountain, waiting for God to pass by. He’d heard many loud noises in quick succession—first wind, then an earthquake, then a fire. God wasn’t in any of those things.

But then, once all of the loud and attention-grabbing phenomena had passed by and everything became still, Elijah heard a faint whisper.

This quiet sound was the voice of God. He asked, simply, “What are you doing here, Elijah?”

This was the voice Elijah had been waiting for. But he had to allow the noise to pass before he was able to hear what God had to say.

All of us have a need to hear the voice of God. God created us to be in a relationship with Him—if we don’t make space in our lives for that relationship, we’ll always feel as if we’re missing something. But just like Elijah experienced, the voice of God in our lives is rarely loud and attention-grabbing. Typically, we can only hear the voice of God if we slow down, quiet the other voices around us, and bring our attention to what God may be saying.

God may not speak to you in an audible whisper, but when you bring your thoughts and requests to Him, you can trust Him to respond. He can speak through the wise counsel of trusted people. Through closed doors and new opportunities. Through the cares and passions He’s put on your heart. When we quiet the voices around us and make space for God to speak, He won’t let us down.

Reflection: When was the last time you slowed down and made space to listen to what God might be trying to tell you? Set aside some time today to quiet the voices around you and listen for the voice of God.

Prayer: Father, You’re the King and Creator of the entire universe, and yet You still make time to listen to our prayers and speak to us. That’s amazing. Thank You for caring for me as much as You do. Help me to make listening to You a priority in my life this week. What do You want to say to me? In Jesus’ name, amen.