He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them his way. Psalm 25:9 NIV
One summer I spoke at a teen camp in Indiana. It was way back in the woods where cell phone reception was very poor. I am sure I amused or confused anyone who watched my morning ritual for calling my husband back home. After much experimentation I discovered there was one place on the right front corner of the concrete slab porch of my little cabin where a clear connection could be made. I couldn’t sit to talk. If I stood still in one very tiny little place with my arm and phone tipped upward, I would get enough reception bars to call home. Oh, yeah. Unless it was raining.
Aren’t you glad we don’t have to struggle like that to get a strong and steady connection to hear from God? There are certain positions that make our connection with Him clear and effective, however. He is anxious to guide and teach us.
Cultivate humility. A humble and teachable spirit clears the channels for you to hear God’s voice.
Come expectantly. Believe that it is God’s delight to speak to you. Expect to hear His voice.
Consciously decide proactively to act on whatever He says. This prepares you to receive with confidence.
Clear your environment. Remove distractions. Choose a time and place where you can be still and quiet your heart to hear. Shut off devices or anything that might interrupt.
Choose gratitude for your first words. Recall what He has done with thanksgiving.
Converse with God. Communicate your desire to hear from Him. Ask Him to speak to you about anything in your life and concerns. Don’t rush. He may speak to you through Scripture you read. He may bring new thoughts to your mind. Ask, “What do you want to tell me about my spirit? My relationships? My day today?” As you sit with Him, He will speak to your heart. Write what you believe He has spoken to you. It will encourage and lead you long-term.
Commit to immediately follow through on any word from Him. Make a tangible plan.
- As you get into the habit of positioning yourself to hear from God, you will find you grow into daily dialogue that continues all day long. It will become your joy and your lifeline.