TD10-Be still

TD10-Be still

Can you hear what God is saying to you? And if so, are you sure it’s God talking? 

I think there’s a lot of common misconceptions about communication with God. And those misconceptions lead to misinterpretations. I think many folks today may believe it’s as simple as a quick prayer followed by a quick and clear answer from God. While that very well may happen for some or even many, most likely, clarity from God will be difficult to receive without a close and personal relationship with Jesus. And if you don’t “look, listen and feel”, it’s very unlikely you’ll hear him, much less, understand what he’s saying to you. 

First, I’m going to start by pointing out something (I feel is significant) that the Bible says about this. Normally, I don’t do that because my hope is that you’ll find these things on your own….by looking up scripture. Don’t take my word for it…..always refer to scripture. That’s where you will find truth. 

Nevertheless….First, Psalm 46:10….read it! “Be still and know that I am God.” Why is that significant? Because, we all know how difficult even everyday simple communication can be…with someone who’s literally feet from you. Our minds are flooded with distractions intentionally designed to drown out the voice of God. From the time we open our eyes in the morning, for a lot of folks it’s 100mph until you hit the pillow again. When you communicate with God, your time should be intentional, focused and without distraction. When you truly dedicate time to focus on Christ and use scripture as your source of discernment, you will hear him. And the more constant this routine becomes, the more clarity you’ll receive from the Lord. 

I think a lot of folks bypass the relationship part these days. People also bypass time spent reading scripture. I know I have, and for the better part of my life. I used to be under the impression that, if I just spoke to God he’d answer and I’d understand everything just perfectly. And besides, I grew up in church….doubtful I wouldn’t understand. We’re intelligent beings, right? Haha…not me…not so much;) But anyway, we know the story, what to do and what to say….we get the point! No need to inconvenience yourself by “having” to spend time reading the Bible, right! I get it, that’s exactly what and how I thought. Keep in mind however, I was fast asleep when I thought this. I suspect that most folks who think this way are also asleep….which is a topic I’ll soon discuss. 

So, here’s a hypothetical scenario…but, humor me for a second while I badly attempt to make a point. Let’s say you had a friend when you were younger…..like high school age or younger. You both finish up school and head separate directions in life. Be it college, service or whatever, you don’t see this person anymore. But you keep in touch through social media or the occasional text or email. 20 years pass with this being the extent of your relationship. At that point, how well do you know them? Now, take your best friend for example, or someone else who you know well and can read their body language. For you to do that, to have that deep of an understanding of someone, you’ve probably spent a significant amount of time with that person. And you’d know what they want, need or what makes them happy. And we genuinely desire to make those people happy…..especially my dog! But, this same concept applies to your relationship with Christ. If you don’t spend time with him your relationship will not develop. And if you do not understand him, same result. But one may argue that the understanding part may be the easiest. Everything you need to know in order to understand Jesus is in the Bible. To know someone, you must learn about them. And to learn about Jesus, you must read scripture. 

Throughout my life, I’ve heard many folks say…(and I’ve said it too)….”I’ve already read that book, chapter or verse. But folks, as your relationship with Christ deepens, so does your understanding of his teachings. Though you may have read it time and time again earlier in life, if you were asleep when you read it, you may find new meaning once your awake. 

It’s very interesting to think about how folks communicate with God. Look, the Bible is full of verses about communication and some may say it’s as simple as this….ask and you will receive. Most folks may even accept that because it’s quick, easy and convenient. Yes, there’s times when you feel like you need clear, immediate answers. My fear is, that people will leave it at…ask and receive. Those folks will likely misinterpret answers because of their own lack of understanding…..and they are likely asleep. Folks, develop your relationship with Christ and seek his wisdom in everything you do. Be still….and know that he is God….and you will hear him.