This past week, I started a Bible study at the church I attend MOPs at, titled Discerning the Voice of God. In this first week we talked about how different people believe God speaks to them. Whether you believe He speaks to you through His word, through those around you and opportunities that He opens or closes, through a silent feeling, or with a booming voice from above, God does speak to us.
The real question is, ARE YOU LISTENING? I know that I am totally guilty of going to God in prayer when a hard time arises and I need some help or I go to Him, like Santa, and say I need this, this, & could you give me a little of that. I try to manipulate God ......like we can do that.....to get what I want. I'm always talking, my husband will agree, but if I'm asking all this stuff, why am I not taking time to listen to His answer. Many times I ask for His will and direction, and then immediately go do what I think is best....why did I even consult God if I already knew what I was going to do? Also, I notice, many times, I've already made up my mind long before I even ask, hoping that somehow I'll get God's blessing on my decision, so heaven forbid, I don't get His wrath poured out on me.
It's very hard in our busy lives to truly slow down and just listen to what God's direction is for our lives. We know where WE want to be and what WE want to do, but we are missing out on God's amazing plan for our lives by pushing His will away. I encourage you to listen to God. If you ask Him a question He WILL answer. It may not be the answer you want or in the time you planned it...... but that's another week!
Are there areas in your life that you have made a snap judgment call and then regretted it or realized that you went against God's leading? I know I have, especially when it came to family decisions, it's hard, but we need to ready ourselves like Habakkuk and wait.
Habakkuk 2:1
I will stand at my watch
and station myself on the ramparts;
I will look to see what He will say to me,
and what I shall answer when I am reproved.
