Hearing His Voice #247

Moses and the people of Israel sang this song to the LORD: . . . “With your unfailing love you lead the people you have redeemed.”

Exodus 15:1, 13

If our spirits hear a voice that sounds demanding, compulsive, or impatient, it is almost certainly not God’s. He may be firm and persistent, but His approach is personal and respectful of the relationship. He isn’t manipulative because manipulation isn’t appropriate in healthy relationships. He’s a leader, not a pusher. He doesn’t drive us against our will; He draws us into agreement with Him. Like a consummate gentleman, He woos and beckons and counsels.

Sometimes we forget that. Whether through a guilty conscience or a pattern of dysfunctional relationships with other people, we tend to hear God’s voice with an expectation that He will command us like slaves or compel us to do what we don’t want to do. We forget that He works through our desires more often than He works against them, bringing us into alignment with His will rather than forcing it on us. He is not a hard master; He’s a persuasive leader.

Avoid the pessimism of those who believe God will almost always tell you what you don’t want to hear or that His words will always crucify you—or at least be hard to hear. Yes, we are to submit our wills to His, but His will is usually appealing and uplifting. If He inspires prophecy to strengthen, encourage, and comfort (1 Corinthians 14:3), His voice will certainly sound that way when we hear Him directly.

Listen carefully today. God’s words are not to be feared or avoided; they are to be eagerly sought and consumed. Whatever your situation, even if you’re in the dark depths of a crisis, God knows the way out. He always leads His people into places of peace and victory.

Lord, I’ve heard that demanding, manipulative voice before, and sometimes I’ve wondered if it’s Yours. Help me discern the tone of Your voice and recognize Your gentle ways. You lead well; let me follow well too. I choose to listen to You with the expectation of goodness in everything You say.