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For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God (Romans 8:14, NLT).
As our earthly father involves himself in all aspects of our lives, our Heavenly Father does as well. His presence is always with us. He speaks and leads us daily. The problem isn’t God speaking but us listening.
David Benner, in his book Desiring God’s Will, writes. . .
If a person has already settled into a job, chosen a husband or wife, or wasn’t facing another major decision, God’s will recedes into the background. What a shamefully small view of God’s love! Can God’s dreams for us really be limited to a few moments in life—isolated decisions and major transition points? God longs for your friendship, not simply your compliance.
We find God’s will by enjoying God’s presence. Our Father speaks to us, and as our constant Companion, we easily find wisdom, help in times of need, and provision. But how can we become more aware of God?
Do three things:
- Sit in a chair with a Bible and pray. . .
Father, for the next few minutes, help me be aware of Your presence. Speak to me through Your Word. I agree with Psalm 16:11. . .
You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore (ESV).
- Turn to a “leading chapter” or a chapter that reveals many things about God and our obedience to Him. Great leading chapters are Psalm 25, Psalm 91, Romans 12, 1 Corinthians 13, and James 1, as they contain many insights into our character along with practical advice for living.
As you read a “leading chapter” think, “God, as I read this chapter, let me understand what it means, what it’s saying to me, and anything specific that I need to do.”
- Ask this question: “God, what are You saying to me today?” Then listen — be still. To help with stillness, I usually repeat, “God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit.” It’s impossible to quiet our minds of random thoughts, but repeating “God the Father, God the Son, and God the Spirit” allows our minds to discern strange thoughts from God’s thoughts. In the presence of proclaiming God, what thoughts bring peace?
These steps aren’t complicated, and a loving relationship is never difficult, as it’s easily obtained by desire, and as His grace obtains it and not our works, so the ultimate question for all of us. . .
Do we really desire God’s presence and listen to His Word?
Now we all say, “Yes, and amen.”