Tuesday, March 09, 2010

WHAT IF GOD WERE MUTE?

What if God were mute, or we were deaf? That would stink!
Yet, sadly enough that is how many Christians live, as if God doesn't speak. What a sad and lonely existence!
A common misconception is that God only speaks through His written word. Another common myth is that only Prophets can hear from God.
"Jesus said, 'If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." John 8:31-32
Yes, God does speak through His written word and Prophets do hear from God... Oh, but there is so much more!
Jesus tells us in John 10:26-28, "My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me."
The truth is, anyone who is a follower of Christ is given the privilege of hearing the Good Shepherd's voice.
Could you imagine a sheep that was unable to recognize his masters voice?
In some places, shepherds bring their sheep to large fields with other sheep and shepherds all mingled together. The only way out from the crowd is to recognize the shepherd's voice when He calls.
How many of us feel lost in the crowd, unclear what direction to go in or what crowd to follow?
Thank God He is not mute and we are not deaf! We can hear His voice!
So, who teaches us how to hear His voice?
"...the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things...." John 14:25-27.
What an awesome and amazing privilege God has given to those of us who want it! We can hear from the creator of Heaven and Earth!
So, how does He speak?
Jesus spoke in parables, mysteries and in plain language to those who could understand. He speaks the same today. We just need to take the time to listen.
As a father on Easter, I do not hide the eggs deep beneath the ground so that my 4-6 yr olds can't find them. Yet, for my 10-12 yr olds, I may hide them a bit deeper.
I believe God, as our Father, is much the same. His ways are deeper and greater than our ways, yet He speaks in ways we can understand. Yet, it requires time with Him to learn to recognize His voice. The challenge is learning how to discern His voice from all the others.
Key #1: Be a follower of Jesus. Key #2: Spend time with Him daily to learn to recognize how He speaks specifically to you.
Enjoy The Journey!

Bah, Bah!