Listening for the Inward Voice until we learn to recognize it

Hello, dear one! 

I haven't touched this blog in 5 years, but it has been on my mind lately. In one of our last conversations you asked me what advice I had for you. I appreciate your trust and eagerness to learn and grow. I'm going to share some thoughts, a little at a time. These reflect what I am studying and considering, and I invite you to join me in contemplating.

First, I have been reading and rereading a list that comes from AW Tozer's "Of God and Men". But I want to slow down, consider just one, and see how it applies.

"Listen for the Inward Voice till you learn to recognize it."

That sounds simple, doesn't it? We "listen" every day to all sorts of input. But to listen for the Inward Voice implies intentionality, focus, time. I am quick to jump from one thing to another, and often only pretend to listen to people, music, programs, etc. As I read my Bible and pray, often the same is true. I don't take time to listen; I'm just "checking a box" for today.

Over the years I've asked the Lord to teach me to listen and to teach me to pray in conversation with Him. Yet I don't slow down to let it happen. 

So, this is my prayer today, for me and for you: 

Lord, help us to listen for the Inward Voice until we learn to recognize You speaking to us!

"There is so much more I want to tell you, but you can't bear it now. When the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on His own but will tell you what He has heard. He will tell you about the future. He will bring Me glory by telling you whatever He receives from Me." (John 16:13-14)

Photo by Nick Fewings on Unsplash