"Hearing from God".
Here are a few observations that came out of those discussions:
1. TAKE THE TIME. A conversation, with anyone, takes time and God is no different. Some people participated in an assignment to set 15-30 minutes aside this week to hear from God. Guess what? Those who didn't do the assignment, didn't hear from God... because they didn't take the time. Anyone can fall into this trap, even long-time Christians. Life gets busy and chatting with God is often put on the back burner for a day. Before you know it a day becomes two days. Two days can become two weeks. And two weeks can become two months or even two years. That's a long time of "no conversation" with God. Whether it's your first time, your daily time, or your first time in a long time... it always starts with making it a priority to take the time and do it.
2. FREE YOURSELF FROM DISTRACTIONS. Distractions are anything that will pull your attention away from what you are trying to accomplish. That said... UNPLUG! Shut off the television. Turn off your cell phone. Click off the computer. Turn down the music. Get alone. And get to a place that's quiet. Now you can focus your attention on God without distraction.
3. ASK AND WAIT. Most people don't hear from God because that don't ask Him anything. They don't engage in any kind of conversation. The best way to get someone to talk is to ask questions that require a response other than yes or no. Is it that difficult to say, "God, I'd really like to know what you think about this?" Then wait for Him to respond. As silly as it may sound, some people just don't wait around for an answer.
4. KEEP IT SIMPLE. Many people approach prayer time in very formal, structured, religious ways that over-complicate things. Instead of a "Chat with Dad" it becomes a one-sided, fearfully religious, perfected obligation with God Almighty. No wonder it doesn't work. There may be times when getting down on your knees and saying the Our Father is a great blessing. But I encourage you to also consider a plethora of prayerful opportunities in which you just "talk with God from your heart." Use common words and tell it like it is. God is eager to communicate with you. Don't let man-made religiosity build barriers that keep you from simply "talking with Him."5. GET AROUND THE EXPERTS. Often God can be speaking to people, and they don't even know it. That's right. No one has ever pointed out to them how that all works. So, if you are looking to hear from God, find people that you believe are hearing from God, and ask them how it works. Talk to them about your experiences and listen to theirs. Be open for instruction. Remember, it's working for them, it's not working for you.
"Really?" he responded. He just never considered that. He was then able to recognize God's voice in the future... and it just accelerated from there. All he needed was someone to point it out to him and assure him that it was God.
6. LOCATION. LOCATION. LOCATION.
God speaks to people in some of the most unexpected places. Yes, He does speak to some people in church. But He also speaks to people while they are driving the car, fishing, painting, walking, cooking, washing the dishes, folding the clothes, raking the leaves, working on model trains, reading, running, swimming, hiking, listening to music... the list could go on forever. Don't limit your opportunities to a church pew. God often speaks to people when they are relaxed, content and unguarded. So what does that for you? Where's your happy place? Don't be surprised to find God meeting you there!7. IDENTIFY YOUR UNIQUE ENTRY POINTS. Where and
when do you feel God the strongest? You know... that feeling that "God is near." You may find yourself filled with love, joy or peace. Perhaps it causes you to cry... stand in awe... or lift your hands?
These are just a few thoughts that may help you "Hear from God." I've found that my RED shoes have brought me through all of these steps at one time or another. They really work!
Gail
