Listening to God's Voice ~ Rebecca Graham

We've been doing a ladies Bible study at our church. And one of the things we have talked about is "Listening for God's voice". John 10:27 says... "My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me:" Some of the things I've taken away from it, is that it is easy for us to become stuck in our own thoughts when we're going through something. Sometimes, it's emotionally and spiritually draining. That's why it's so important for us to remember that we are not alone in our discouragement, nor are we the only ones who have been there. One of the passages of scripture we talked about was 1st Kings chapter 19. It talks about Elijah, as he faces discouragement and despair. After experiencing a spiritual mountaintop, he feels like he's the only one still serving God and is ready to quit. It's then, that God comes along and sustains him with food. (Sometimes, you just need a slice of cake 🙂) Then, we see God come to him and speak to him in a still small voice. He gave Elijah direction and reassurance for the task at hand.

   In our life, there are moments when we feel depleted, or discouraged, or maybe even alone. It's in these moments that we must go to the word of God and get a fresh taste of the bread that can sustain us. Matthew 4:4 says..." But he answered and said, it is written, man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God." We also need to have that precious quiet time alone with the Lord to hear that still small voice which whispers peace and reassurance that we're not alone and that he still loves us. Isaiah 26:3-Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee. John 16:33-These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. Psalm 4:8- I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, Lord, only makest me dwell in safety.

   Just remember, that if the great prophet Elijah can go through something like this, it's inevitable that you and I will go through something similar and the same God that helped Elijah is the same God that we serve today. Hebrews 13:8 says..."Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and today, and forever." Don't try to rely on your own strength. Rather, fully depend on the Lord. Isaiah 41:13-For I the Lord thy God will hold thy right hand, saying unto thee, Fear not; I will help thee.  Proverbs 3:5 and 6- Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.