Did You Hear That?
I will take my stand at my watchpost and station myself on the tower, and look out to see what he will say to me, and what I will answer concerning my complaint. And the Lord answered me: “Write the vision; make it plain on tablets, so he may run who reads it. For still the vision awaits its appointed time; it hastens to the end—it will not lie. If it seems slow, wait for it; it will surely come; it will not delay. (Habakkuk 2.1-3)
Jesus once said - in very trying circumstances - that we do not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes out from the mouth of God. Perhaps you are in a rough situation and need a word from the Lord. Try what Habakkuk the prophet recommended:
Stand watch. While God may surprise the person who is unmindful of him, we are more apt to hear from God if we are watching for him.
Look out. An inward focus is sometimes helpful, and even commended by the Bible, but ultimately our answers come from the One who stands beside us. "Looking unto Jesus..."
Listen carefully. God isn't in the habit of shouting. Are we quiet enough to hear that "still small voice"?
Capture it and make it plain. There is something clarifying in writing down our thoughts. God uses that practice to help us separate his voice from other voices.
Read and run. Do something! God will continue to unveil his plan as we respond to what he has already revealed.
Wait. We do not need to hurry God. As someone recently told me, "God is never late, and seldom early."
Lord, thank you that you are always speaking, and even in the silence I will hear your voice if I am listening. In your grace, remind me - as you reminded the disciples on the Mount - "This is my beloved Son. Listen to him." Amen.