God, is that You?

People who hear the voice of God and are convinced of His will are built to last. Have you ever struggled to find the will of God for your life, business, or family? I certainly have. I truly wanted to please the Lord with my choices. I was even obsessed with finding His perfect will. Which school should I attend? What university major should I pursue? Whom should I date?

As I think back on my early days of Christianity, I sought guidance from friends and Christian leaders. Their advice was true and good, but it left me scratching my head:

1. “Find a good church and go to Sunday school.”
2. “Read the Bible and search for answers.”
3. “Ask God and He’ll tell you.”

I thought to myself, “Wait a minute, gang! I wasn’t raised in church. I don’t understand the Bible or your Christian jargon.” Honestly, it was like they were speaking a foreign language to me. Although I wanted to understand, I needed so much help. I did follow their advice and tried to find the will of God, but it was hard. I rarely felt successful.

Have you ever felt like a failure with God? I have.

One day, I read a Bible story that made me feel a lot better about my awkward attempts. “A third time the Lord called, ‘Samuel!’ And Samuel got up and went to Eli and said, ‘Here I am; you called me.’ Then Eli realized that the Lord was calling the boy.” (1 Samuel 3:8, NIV) This young apprentice couldn’t discern the voice of God either. And yet Samuel became one of the greatest prophets of all time. There’s hope for people like you and me. Hallelujah!

God does want to speak to you. He’ll download thoughts and impressions in your mind. It will be up to you to discern the instructions of God. One Old Testament writer described God’s thoughts this way: “and after the fire a still small voice.” (1 Kings 19:12, NKJV)

Surround yourself with wise friends, counselors, coaches, teachers, and pastors. They’ll help you find the will of God and live it out. You can live the most exciting journey with God, but first, you’ll need to learn how to discern His voice because you’re a miracle.

Your friend, Paul Marc Goulet