Hearing the Voice of God
Introduction:
Today, we embark on a journey to explore the profound theme of hearing the voice of God. From the very beginning of creation to the narratives of ancient Israel, God's voice has echoed through history, calling His people into relationship and purpose. In Genesis 2:17, we encounter the first instance of God speaking directly to humanity, setting the stage for a divine dialogue that continues to reverberate through the ages. As we delve into Exodus 3 and Exodus 33, we witness pivotal moments where God's voice transforms lives and shapes destinies. Let us open our hearts and minds to the truth revealed in Scripture and be transformed by the voice of our Creator.
Point 1: The Command to Listen (Genesis 2:17)
"But you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat from it you will certainly die." (Genesis 2:17, NLT)
In the Garden of Eden, God gave Adam a clear command, accompanied by a warning of the consequences of disobedience. This command reveals God's desire for intimate communion with His creation and underscores the importance of listening to His voice. Just as Adam was called to heed God's instruction, we too are called to listen attentively to God's word, trusting in His wisdom and guidance.
God's command in Genesis 2:17 establishes the principle of obedience to His voice.
The consequence of disobedience highlights the seriousness of ignoring God's commands.
God's desire for relationship with humanity is evident in His communication with Adam.
"The voice of God is a present help, a constant comfort, and a steadfast guide for those who are attuned to hear it." - Charles Stanley
Proverbs 3:5-6 (NLT): "Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take."
These verses from Proverbs encourage believers to trust in the Lord wholeheartedly and to seek His guidance in all aspects of life. They highlight the importance of surrendering to God's wisdom and direction, rather than relying solely on human understanding.
Point 2: Encounter at the Burning Bush (Exodus 3:1-19)
In Exodus 3, we witness the extraordinary encounter between God and Moses at the burning bush. As Moses tended the flock of his father-in-law, Jethro, on the mountain of Horeb, he encountered the presence of God in a profound way. Through the burning bush, God called Moses to deliver His people from bondage in Egypt, revealing His divine plan and purpose. This encounter demonstrates God's initiative in reaching out to His servants and inviting them into His redemptive work.
The burning bush symbolises the presence and holiness of God.
God's call to Moses underscores His sovereignty and authority to appoint His chosen vessels for His purposes.
God's revelation of His name, "I AM WHO I AM," signifies His eternal and unchanging nature.
Isaiah 6:8 (NLT) says: "Then I heard the Lord asking, 'Whom should I send as a messenger to this people? Who will go for us?' I said, 'Here I am. Send me.'"
This verse captures a pivotal moment in the life of the prophet Isaiah. He has a profound encounter with the Lord in the temple, where he sees a vision of God's majesty and holiness. Seraphim are present, and the whole place is filled with the glory of God. Isaiah is overwhelmed by the sight, realising his own unworthiness in the presence of the Almighty.
The moment Isaiah hears the voice of the Lord asking who will go for Him, Isaiah's response is remarkable. He doesn't hesitate; instead, he responds with complete surrender and readiness: "Here I am. Send me." This reveals Isaiah's willingness to be used by God for His purposes, despite the challenges and responsibilities that come with being a messenger to the people.
The setting of Isaiah 6 underscores the holiness and glory of God, which leads Isaiah to a deep sense of humility and repentance.
The question posed by God reveals His desire for a messenger to proclaim His message to the people of Israel.
Isaiah's response reflects his obedience and readiness to fulfil God's calling, demonstrating faith and trust in God's commission.
"The call of God is never just for our sake; it is always for the sake of others." - Oswald Chambers
Isaiah's response challenges us to examine our own readiness to respond to God's call. Are we willing to surrender our plans and desires to be used by God for His kingdom purposes? Like Isaiah, may we be quick to say, "Here I am, Lord. Send me," when God calls us to share His truth and love with the world around us.
Today, let us open our hearts to God's voice and His calling on our lives. Let us be willing vessels, ready to be sent by God wherever He leads us. Whether it's in our homes, workplaces, communities, or beyond, may we embrace the privilege of being messengers of God's grace and truth.
Isaiah 6:8 challenges us to respond to God's call with humility, faith, and obedience. As we yield ourselves to His will, may we experience the joy and fulfilment of partnering with God in His redemptive work in the world.
Point 3: Intimate Communion with God (Exodus 33:11)
"Inside the Tent of Meeting, the Lord would speak to Moses face to face, as one speaks to a friend." (Exodus 33:11a, NLT)
In Exodus 33, we glimpse the intimate communion between God and Moses within the Tent of Meeting. As Moses sought God's presence, he encountered Him in a profound way, speaking to Him face to face as a friend. This intimate relationship highlights the privilege and power of hearing the voice of God, guiding His people on their journey of faith.
The Tent of Meeting symbolises the sacred space where God's presence dwells among His people.
God's friendship with Moses demonstrates His desire for personal relationship and communion.
The face-to-face interaction signifies the intimacy and authenticity of their communication.
"When we pray, the voice of the heart must be heard more than the proceedings from the mouth." - Martin Luther
John 1:27 (NLT): "He is the one I was talking about when I said, ‘Someone is coming after me who is far greater than I am, for he existed long before me.’"
This verse is part of John the Baptist's testimony about Jesus Christ. John the Baptist was baptising people in the Jordan River, preparing the way for the Messiah. When asked about his identity and authority, John makes it clear that he is not the Christ but a herald proclaiming His coming.
John the Baptist's statement emphasises the preeminence of Jesus over himself. Despite his influential ministry and following, John humbly acknowledges that Jesus is far greater and existed before him.
This verse highlights John's role as a forerunner, preparing the hearts of the people for the arrival of the long-awaited Messiah.
John's declaration underscores the divine nature and eternal existence of Jesus, contrasting with John's own temporal existence.
"John the Baptist was a signpost pointing away from himself to Christ." - R.C. Sproul
John's testimony challenges us to shift our focus from human leaders or influencers to the ultimate authority, Jesus Christ. Just as John pointed others to Jesus, we are called to exalt Christ in our lives and ministries, recognising His supremacy and lordship.
Let us emulate John the Baptist's humility and purpose in our own lives. Instead of seeking recognition or glory for ourselves, may we point others to Jesus, the true source of salvation and eternal life. As we share the gospel and proclaim Christ's greatness, may hearts be turned towards Him in repentance and faith.
John 1:27 teaches us the importance of humility, exalting Christ above all, and faithfully fulfilling our role in God's kingdom mission. Let us join John the Baptist in declaring, "He must become greater; I must become less" (John 3:30, NIV), as we magnify Jesus in every aspect of our lives.
Point 4: The Call to Hear (John 8:47)
"Anyone who belongs to God listens gladly to the words of God. But you don’t listen because you don’t belong to God." (John 8:47, NLT)
Jesus emphasises the significance of belonging to God and the resulting responsiveness to His voice. Those who truly belong to God will eagerly listen to His words and follow Him. This verse underscores the spiritual condition of the heart as the key to hearing and responding to God's voice. Belonging to God opens our ears to His truth and prompts us to walk in obedience and faith.
Jesus contrasts those who belong to God with those who do not, based on their responsiveness to His words.
Belonging to God signifies a relationship of trust and obedience.
The call to hear God's voice is foundational to spiritual intimacy and discipleship.
"The voice of God is a constant invitation to draw near and abide in His love." - A.W. Tozer
Revelation 3:20 (NLT): "Look! I stand at the door and knock. If you hear my voice and open the door, I will come in, and we will share a meal together as friends."
Application:
As we reflect on these biblical narratives, let us cultivate a heart that is attuned to the voice of God. Through prayer, Scripture meditation, and spiritual discernment, may we deepen our relationship with our Heavenly Father and embrace His guidance in our lives. Let us seek moments of solitude and silence to listen for His voice, trusting that He will lead us on paths of righteousness and purpose.
Call to Action:
Today, I urge you to set aside time to seek God's voice in prayer and Scripture study. As you quiet your heart before Him, may you experience His presence in a tangible way and receive direction for your journey of faith. Let us commit to obeying His voice promptly and wholeheartedly, knowing that He is faithful to lead us into abundant life.
In conclusion, may we be transformed by the truth that God still speaks to His people today. May we heed His voice with reverence and obedience, knowing that His words are life-giving and transformative. As we walk in intimate communion with our Heavenly Father, may His voice guide us, strengthen us, and empower us to fulfil His purposes in the world.
Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the privilege of hearing Your voice and communing with You intimately. Open our ears to hear Your words and our hearts to receive Your guidance. Help us to walk closely with You, trusting in Your wisdom and direction for our lives. May Your voice be our constant companion and guide, leading us into deeper fellowship with You. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
