The past several devotionals have been about hearing (or discerning) God’s voice in our lives. You hear God’s voice by seeking God’s voice. It is usually a proactive process.

We’ve talked about the importance of the Bible, prayer, seeking the counsel of other godly people, being humble, and acting with love.

Imagine those five parts of discernment in a pie chart. Then imagine a ring around them all. That ring we could label: Time.

We live in an age of quick-fixes and instant gratification. We have become accustomed to microwaves, instant messaging and a thousand channels at the push of a button.

But God works on a different timetable—his. His will is perfect. And his timing is perfect. 

Brothers and sisters, if you want to discern God’s voice, it may take some time. Time to study the Bible, time to pray, time to seek the godly advice of others, time to cultivate humility, and a desire to act in love which sometimes takes time.

This can be frustrating. But it’s also clarifying and rewarding.

“Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him…” (Psalm 37:7)

You can’t rush a pregnancy. You can’t rush the aging of a good wine. And you can’t rush God’s plan.

Be patient. Be godly and do godly things. And the voice of God will become clearer in your life.

———-

Notes:

–A helpful, insightful article by Cameron Cole about the impact on children when parents prioritize taking their kids to church (even when it’s hard, from toddlers to teens). Click here.

–Bible quotes are from the NIV.