It is hard to hear God. I listen, but it seems like sometimes I miss the message and find myself grasping for direction. I recently heard someone say that ministry is as simple as listening to God. I think this is true, and I think this explains why ministry is not easy.

A few days ago I was reading in 1 Kings 19 when an alternate translation of verse 12 captured my attention. This is the account of Elijah waiting to hear from God.

And he said, “Go out and stand on the mount before the LORD.” And behold, the LORD passed by, and a great and strong wind tore the mountains and broke in pieces the rocks before the LORD, but the LORD was not in the wind. And after the wind an earthquake, but the LORD was not in the earthquake. And after the earthquake a fire, but the LORD was not in the fire. And after the fire the sound of a low whisper. And when Elijah heard it, he wrapped his face in his cloak and went out and stood at the entrance of the cave. And behold, there came a voice to him and said, “What are you doing here, Elijah?”
1 Kings 9:11-13

The alternate translation of verse 12 replaces “a low whisper” with “a thin silence”.

The words “thin silence” help me imagine Elijah standing in stark silence with a keen awareness that there is something deeper and more powerful present. I think understanding this means realizing that the silence isn’t empty space between activities, but an opportunity to cut through the distractions of this world and hear the very heart of God.

Thinking of God’s presence in this way helps us to remember that He is continually present and offering direction. It is our job to break into, and then listen through the thin silence so that we can hear and follow His leading.