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Devotional | Lyn Watson | Aug 7, 2022
The LORD said, “Go out and stand on the mountain in the presence of the LORD, for the LORD is about to pass by.” Then a great and powerful wind tore the mountains apart and shattered the rocks before the LORD, but the LORD was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake, but the LORD was not in the earthquake. After the earthquake came a fire, but the LORD was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper. When Elijah heard it, he pulled his cloak over his face and went out and stood at the mouth of the cave. 1 Kings 19:11-13
Growing up, my mom repeatedly said, “God gave you two ears and one mouth for a reason: you are to listen twice as much as you speak!”
Unfortunately, it took me several years, many report cards later with a “6” notation, “talks too much in class,” and groundings from my parents before this information sunk in.
Many of us enjoy talking because when we talk, we are in control. To listen takes more patience, focus, and less control.
When it comes to communication with God, we find ourselves talking to him and not listening to him. In all my years of poor communication, I have learned that if I listen to God and do not obey, things will not work out. But, when I do listen to God and obey his plan, I see his fruit and purpose.
If I had it my way, I would ask God to send me a large, loud flashing neon sign to tell me the next right step. Yet, he has never done that!
Let’s look at how God does show up in our lives:
1 Kings 19:11-13
The LORD said, “Go out and stand on the mountain in the presence of the LORD, for the LORD is about to pass by.” Then a great and powerful wind tore the mountains apart and shattered the rocks before the LORD, but the LORD was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake, but the LORD was not in the earthquake. After the earthquake came a fire, but the LORD was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper. When Elijah heard it, he pulled his cloak over his face and went out and stood at the mouth of the cave.
Notice that the Lord did not appear in powerful wind, earthquake, or fire, but in a gentle whisper. Today, we have so much noise in our lives: phones, social media, work schedules, television, you name it! So, how can we possibly hear God—especially if it’s in a whisper?
Elijah went to the cave so he could hear the voice of the Lord. How can we find our caves so we can hear God’s whisper over all the noise?
What will you do today to hear God’s whisper?
Remember, God gave us two ears and one mouth for a reason! To listen, then obey.
PRAYER
Father, thank you for your omniscient presence in my life. I come before you today seeking wisdom and discernment. Guide and help me seek you first, silencing all that takes my attention off of you. Help me hear you clearly, even in a whisper. I give all glory and honor to you!
Amen.
Lyn Watson
Executive Pastor
Bio: Lyn Watson is the Executive Pastor of People and Connection at Crossings Community Church. She is passionate to serve, inspire, and encourage others so they feel known, valued, and empowered.
Sacred Silence
Song by Jenny Pixler
Sacred silence, Holy ocean
Gentle waters, washing over me
Help me listen, Holy Spirit
Come and speak to me
God my father, Christ my brother
Holy Spirit, sanctifying me
Lord I’m sorry, please forgive me
Come and set me free
Gentle water, washing over me
Holy Mary, gentle mother
God’s pure vessel, praying for me
Saints and Angels, all in heaven
Come and be with me