Current Sunday Messages
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Message: “The Voice of God
Scripture Reading: I Kings 19:9-18
From the Book of Genesis to the Book of Malachi, the Voice of God is heard repeatedly. He speaks to Adam and Eve in the Garden, to Moses on the Mount, to Isaiah in his heavenly vision, to Jeremiah, to Samuel at night, and to Elijah, to name a few. Our Scripture reading details one such experience in the life of Elijah where he was hiding in a cave to save his life. The people of Israel had rejected Jehovah and were worshipping Baal, a idol. In the process, they so despised the servants of God that all were murdered and the people were searching for Elijah. Elijah hears the word of the Lord in the cave and follows the instructions received. There was a mighty wind that shattered the rocks of the mountain, there was an earthquake, and fire, but he did not see or hear God in any of these. God spoke to him in a gentle whisper and instructed him to return from where he came.
The voice of the Lord gave instructions to the government and spiritual leaders in the Old Testament. Many were called by His voice to be a witness to the people to avoid idolatry and to worship the true and living God.
The voice of God is also heard in the New Testament when Jesus is baptized by John in the Jordan River. “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.” Matthew 4:17 NIV In the Book of Acts you have the Lord speaking to Saul and dramatically changing his life.
These are just a few examples of those who heard the voice of God and responded favorable. However, there were multitudes who would not hear the word of the Lord. Rebelling, disobeying, and worshipping idols their hearts were hardened toward Jehovah. God did what he could to get their attention, but they refused.
Do people hear the voice of God today? An initial response would be, “If you do, you are crazy!” The truth is that God’s word is still heard in our hearts, lives, and churches today. The Bible is God’s Word! Why do so few ever read it? Why do those who read it not believe or obey it? Samuel heard the voice of the Lord calling him during the night, but thought it was Eli. He failed to recognize God’s voice. People do the same today because there are other more important things in their life, guess these would be called gods.
When people hear the voice of the Lord in his word or through the Holy Spirit and obey, the blessings are immeasurable. When we fail to listen, the trials can become immeasurable. Consider Jonah or the nation of Israel in the Books of Kings and Chronicles.
Please take the time, to find a quiet place. Read the Word, pray, and wait upon the Spirit to speak God’s word to you. “If we seek Him, we will find Him.”
—Rev. Reginald Thomas