Today's Reading - 1 Kings 16

God is Speaking

Throughout human history, God has initiated communication with humanity by speaking to us. In fact, God is constantly speaking to us through various means. In today’s reading, the word of the Lord came to a man named Jehu. But how, exactly, did this word come to him?

The Bible records God speaking audibly to people many times. In these cases, they could hear His audible voice with their ears. Although it seems somewhat rare, there is no reason God could not speak audibly to people today, just as He has in the past. But, God speaking audibly seems to be the exception, not the rule. But He is still speaking. There are many ways in which the words of God come to us.

First, God speaks to us through His written word, the Bible. Using this means, God is constantly speaking to everyone.  The Bible is God’s Word, and it contains everything we need to know in order to be saved and live the life He intended for us.   Second Peter 1:3 declares, “His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of Him who called us by his own glory and goodness.” So, if you are longing to hear the word of the Lord, you need look no further than your Bible.

God also speaks to us through the events and circumstances of our lives. God allows events to occur in our lives to instruct us, direct us, change us, and help us to grow spiritually. As we experience challenges and successes, the Holy Spirit is with us, impressing upon our hearts the truth God wants to teach us through those events.

God also speaks to us through visions and revelations. Sometimes these revelations come to us as strong impressions on our heart and mind, communicating God’s message. Other times, these revelations may come from other Spirit-filled believers in the form of prophecy, words of knowledge, words of wisdom, or exhortation.  The Lord has also been known to speak to His people through dreams (e.g. Joseph, Daniel) or even “trances” (e.g. Peter). In very rare cases, God sends an angel to speak to us directly with a message from Him.

In whatever way He chooses to speak to us, it is our duty to listen for His still, small voice as He communicates His love and grace to us.  Whether it is an audible voice, an inner voice, or a mental impression, God has something to say to you today.