No, I’m not talking about PA systems, surround sound, hearing aids or any other type of external amplification.
I’m talking about listening to the still, small voice that the Lord uses when He wants to get our attention.
Advice from a friend or an expert is good but direction from the Lord is better.
“Our God says, “Calm down, and learn that I am God! All nations on earth will honor me.” 11 The Lord All-Powerful is with us. The God of Jacob is our fortress.” Psalm 46:10-11 CEV
Jesus is the friend that is always with us. If we listen, we will hear His voice and when we follow Him, He will lead us.
“ My sheep hear My voice and I know them. They follow Me. 28 I give them life that lasts forever. They will never be punished. No one is able to take them out of My hand.” John 10:27-28 NLV
“ The Lord is my Shepherd. I will have everything I need. 2 He lets me rest in fields of green grass. He leads me beside the quiet waters. 3 He makes me strong again. He leads me in the way of living right with Himself which brings honor to His name. 4 Yes, even if I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will not be afraid of anything, because You are with me. You have a walking stick with which to guide and one with which to help. These comfort me. ” Psalm 23:1-4 NLV
His leading is for our protection. We don’t ever need to fear when we are following Him. Even in a dangerous situation like the valley of the shadow of death, He is with us. Even in the presence of our enemies, He provides for us.
“You are making a table of food ready for me in front of those who hate me. You have poured oil on my head. I have everything I need.” Psalm 23:5 NLV
The Lord is always speaking to our hearts. That’s how a shepherd calms His sheep, He speaks to them and His voice is soothing and calming. Giving them rest.
“23 The steps of a good man are led by the Lord. And He is happy in his way. 24 When he falls, he will not be thrown down, because the Lord holds his hand...39 But the saving of those who are right with God is from the Lord. He is their strength in time of trouble. 40 The Lord helps them and takes them out of trouble. He takes them away from the sinful, and saves them, because they go to Him for a safe place.” Psalm 37:23-40 NLV
Let me advise you to listen to the right voices. Some voices spread fear and distress. Some speak words of greed and selfishness. But there is a voice to follow that speaks peace.
“ So My Word which goes from My mouth will not return to Me empty. It will do what I want it to do, and will carry out My plan well. 12 You will go out with joy, and be led out in peace. The mountains and the hills will break out into sounds of joy before you. And all the trees of the field will clap their hands. ” Isaish 55:11-12 NLV
Make sure you are listening to “sound advice”.