It’s somewhat embarrassing to publicly admit this … but one of my guilty pleasures is watching HGTV on television. I have more than a few favorite programs I watch on a regular basis. I’m a fan of these shows because apparently, I have a voyeuristic need to see how people in other parts of the country live. (Don’t judge me … I know I am not alone in this!) I enjoy watching the transformations of the Fixer Uppers and delight in being part of the House Hunters journey.
One of my favorite shows is Property Brothers, which features identical twin brothers who share real estate and construction duties as they endeavor to find and renovate the perfect home for their clients. Recently, I discovered just how addicted I am to HGTV when I realized that I could successfully identify the Property Brothers based on their voices alone. With my back to the television, I could immediately tell which twin was speaking.
My revelation somewhat disturbed me. It got me wondering how my listening skills are when it comes to hearing God’s voice. I hope I can easily distinguish God’s voice above the enemy’s voice — or even my own internal dialogue. If I know God’s voice I shouldn’t wonder is that YOU God, or just my own thoughts?
Developing a close relationship with God that is so intimate that we instantly recognize His voice, is really not much different than any other successful relationship. Solid relationships are forged through spending time getting to know one another.
The best way to get to know God is through His word — the Bible. We need to carve out regular quiet time for studying the Scriptures. His voice can be a gentle whisper when we read the words in the Bible or it can thunder loudly when a Scripture seems to jump off the page striking a blow to our soul or our conscience.
God not only speaks to us through the Bible, but His voice can be heard through a song, a devotional, a pulpit message or a word from a friend or stranger alike. We can hear God through the beauty of nature; the crashing of waves, the sound of the birds or the rising or setting of the sun.
I don’t profess to be an expert at any of this, but for me, I often hear God the loudest when I experience His peace, especially in the middle of a trial that should be anything but peaceful. I’m not sure who originally said it, but it always rings true: NO God, NO peace. KNOW God, KNOW peace.
Healthy relationships are always a two-way street that involve both talking and listening. Spending time with God does not have to be structured. God is always with us and wants to have an intimate relationship with us — whether it’s five minutes a day if that’s all we’ve got, or longer if our schedule allows. Deep, meaningful relationships are borne through commitment. As with any other relationship, we’ll get back as much as we are willing to give.
READ God’s Word daily. TALK with God regularly. LISTEN for God frequently so you’ll HEAR Him immediately and distinguish HIS VOICE above all others.
“My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.” John 10:27 (ESV)
Blessings in Christ,
Kathy K.
Great analogy. Thanks Kathy
I long to know His voice and follow it. Your discovery is too funny! = )
Oh that HGTV… so good. Your words are so true. Reading the Bible helps so much with hearing Gods voice and developing more intimacy. Thanks for sharing!