Sunday, May 4, 2008

God's Big Voice

God's Big Voice
May 5, 2008


1 Kings 19:11-12 "The LORD said, "Go out and stand on the mountain in the presence of the LORD, for the LORD is about to pass by." Then a great and powerful wind tore the mountains apart and shattered the rocks before the LORD, but the LORD was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake, but the LORD was not in the earthquake. After the earthquake came a fire, but the LORD was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper."

Americans love their superheroes. Billions of dollars have been spent perpetuating images of superheroes in our hearts as we love to indulge the idea of someone so strong and powerful who can rescue us from all harm. We continue in this fantasy, imagining what it would be like if we had such superhero powers, envisioning the display of our powers in front of our enemies. But there is really only one such superhero: God.

He displays His power so many times throughout the Bible, where His might is demonstrated before everyone or a select few. The Bible paints a picture in many different books of the Bible regarding God showing up in a storm; thunder, high winds, lightning, and earthquakes. This imagery instills in us a sense of awe, knowing full well His capabilities, where we revere His power and are willing to submit before Him. But then, after this display of power and might, God speaks. Our superhero steps forward and begins to talk to us. Naturally, we expect His voice to be booming, maybe as loud as the thunder, or with fire blazing from His breath. But God does not speak in a thunderous chorus where nations can hear His words. He speaks in a still, small voice.

Our superhero chooses to talk to us in a still, small voice. The word "still" is used so we are willing to calm our thoughts, voice, and world around us in an effort to hear Him. The word "small" is used so we can hear Him on an intimate, one-on-one level. When God speaks, He uses a voice that can only be heard if we are listening in, so very closely. If the distracting noises around us are too loud, then His voice cannot be heard, as it is usually a gentle whisper. God's displays of His superhero powers are so His enemies are afraid of Him. God's use of a still, small voice is so that anyone who truly wants to hear His voice might do just that.

1. Haven't heard the Lord's voice in a while or ever?
2. Isn't it time you quieted your selfish world to hear Him?

No comments: