On hearing God's voice

Today we looked at a passage (Matthew 17:1-8) that revealed how Jesus receives the baton from Moses and Elijah (the Law and Prophets) as God's central redeeming and guiding force. As Jesus is transformed his eternal and divine identity is revealed in front of his three closest students, God's voice from heaven is audible and profound. It is not often that God's speaks so that all around can hear his voice during Jesus' life on earth. So, wouldn't it be nice if we would get to hear God's voice audibly, publicly, at crucial times in our life? God does speak and He is able to be heard. He declares on that day in front of Peter, John and James, that His desire is that we "listen to Him". Yet, there does seem to be much confusion around hearing God's voice and following His direction.

So, here's some observations (from Dallas Willard's book, Hearing God) that can clear up misperceptions around hearing the voice of God.

1) Message-a-Minute. In this misperception, God is telling us at each moment what we are to do each step of the way. Many speak as if God is always talking to them, almost without break. Scripture does not support this picture. While many of his leaders and apostles did have a deep sense of mission and purpose, and at times hear directly from an encounter with God, we do not find them receiving constant communications from God.

2) Its' All in the Bible. This misunderstanding says that all we need to know is in the Bible. While much guidance is there, the Bible was not intended to give you the answer to everyday questions, like what hour to get up in the morning or whom to marry. With that said, we do have the necessary principles to live a life like Jesus. Contrary to what some may believe, I do not receive direct revelation from God on every topic and message to teach. I simply listen for God's direction as I read, interact with others in our church and local community, commit to time in prayer, and then share what I have come to believe is what's most helpful and life forming. God's will is clear on many issues in scripture and those general principles are to be applied by personal divine guidance in the unique circumstances we find ourselves in today.

3) Whatever Comes. This view incorrectly asserts that every circumstance as guidance from God. Unfortunately, even if it seems like we are trusting fully in God's sovereign leadership, we miss out on His personal interaction with us. Many things that happen in this life are not the will of God. He can do no evil or injustice. His heart breaks at much of what happens to those without power and resources in our world. It is, though, God's will that his people do not sit idly by and watch others suffer cruelty or abuse. We have a crucial part to play in His Kingdom work being experienced.

Dallas ends these observations with a helpful illustration. I will share it from my own experience. I get to be the dad of three amazing, energetic and bright boys. These guys remind me that God is gracious, generous and patient with me. Parenting if you get to participate, is indeed intended for our spiritual formation. That's for another blog. But, I try as best as I can, through God's guidance and my personality to share direction and wisdom with my boys. They are young still and I give them tons of advice and direction (perhaps too much). They are good guys and listen and respond well most of the time. But, I know that the true test of their understanding and reception of my leadership will be later in life when I am not there personally to say what to do next. Maturity, then, will not be linked to my present and direct speaking but how they now apply the teaching and guidance I have tried to share along the way. The true measure will be when I do not speak, am silent and not within ear shot.

I know this is a long one. Thanks for hanging in there and finishing. If I have been unclear on any of these points, I would like the opportunity to clarify. Or better yet, pick up a copy of Willard's book and read it in the proper context. Please receive, reflect and come to your convictions regarding these observations. As always, if you have any comments, questions or additional insights, send them along.

Grace and Peace,
Troy