How Do We Hear Jesus’ Voice?
A Native American and his friend were walking in Times Square in New York City. The streets were busy, noisy, and filled with people. The sounds of the city were almost deafening. Suddenly, the Native American said, “I hear a cricket.” His friend said, “What? You must be crazy. You couldn’t possibly hear a cricket in all of this noise!” “No, I’m sure of it,” the Native American said, “I heard a cricket.” “That’s just crazy,” said the friend.
The Native American listened carefully for a moment, and then walked across the street to a big cement planter where some shrubs were growing. He looked into the bushes, beneath the branches, and sure enough, he located a small cricket. In utter amazement, the friend said, “That’s incredible! You must have superhuman ears.” “No,” said the Native American. “My ears are no different from yours. It just depends on what you’re listening for.”
If you want to hear Jesus’ voice above all the noise that seems to block any real connection with him, what can you do?
Jesus waits for you to turn to Him and see yourself as one of His own. This is a BIG first step. He desires to shepherd you. He wants you to hear His voice above the daily chatter.
More than any other place, you will be able to hear Jesus’ voice in the Scriptures. God designed them to speak to us. “For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart” (Hebrews 4:12).
You need not come in fear to the Bible for the Shepherd wants to guide you as you search and read. Listen carefully, knowing Jesus is there with you, guiding you.
Even as you read the Bible, continue to deepen your relationship with Jesus. As you do, He will speak to you through the Scriptures, and you will also be able to hear His voice speaking to you when the Scriptures don’t offer specific direction.
How can you deepen your relationship with Jesus?
Ask Jesus to give you His insight, wisdom, and direction. Then watch and listen. He will alert you to needs around you. He will speak to you through a person, a song, an event.
Wait and trust the Shepherd’s presence with you. Our instant culture wants quick answers. Jesus is not always in a hurry. He waits for the right time. Enjoy your time with Him, knowing that He will speak when you need to hear from Him.
Desire Him in your daily life. As the story at the beginning of the article continues, the Native American drops a few coins on the ground. When he does, everyone within twenty feet heard the sound, and stopped walking. Why did they hear the coins and not the cricket? Desire. What they heard reflected what they wanted most. If you want to hear Jesus’ voice, learn to desire Him. If you lack desire, ask Him to create it in you. He is more than willing to do that.
The Renewing Life Center is here to support your growing relationship with God. Please contact us if you want to learn more about hearing God’s voice. I also encourage you to check out The Spiritual Formation and Direction Institute on our website by clicking here. This program helps people go deeper in their relationship with God.