Have you ever been somewhere when you heard the faint sound of the radio playing? Maybe in a public place and somewhere off in the distance you notice music. At first you don’t have any idea what song it is, you listen for the words but you can’t quite make them out. You try to hear the melody or the hook, but you can’t seem to find it. Then, suddenly, you recognize what song it is. You know the name of the song and the artist who sings it. And at that moment a funny thing happens. All of the sudden you can hear all of the words crystal clear. You can hear the melody and you find yourself singing the hook. I don’t know about you, but this happens to me all the time. And, it got me thinking, isn’t it often like that with God?

It seems like I often know that God is speaking, but I can’t quite understand. I know that He is leading, but I’m not exactly sure of the direction. I know that he has a plan for me, but for the life of me I can’t see even the first step. But then, when I finally get in sync with Him, it’s all clear. I can hear His voice, feel His leading and see at least a few steps down the road.

I think the key to hearing the music is the same as the key to hearing God, it’s an issue of familiarity. If you have never heard the song playing on that radio off in the distance you are unlikely to ever understand any of the words. But, if it’s your favorite song you will be tapping your toe in no time. In the same way, if you don’t know God, then you have no way of hearing His voice. But, the further you walk in relationship with Jesus, the more you will be able to hear and respond to His leading.

Its simple: Knowing God more = Hearing God more.

If you are a person that really wants to hear from God, then get to know him. Read scripture, pray, and learn to listen. Otherwise you will find yourself straining to hear words that you will never quite grasp.

Happy listening.