Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry. 20 Human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires.

James 1:19-20 (NLT)

I didn’t realize for most of my upbringing in church that God still communicates with us today. I didn’t understand that God wants a relationship with us, a two-way conversation. It came as a revelation to me that we can talk to God just as we do with our friends or family, and He will answer. This realization has inspired me, and I hope to inspire you on your own spiritual journey.

If you believe that God doesn’t speak directly to people today, think again. Jesus clearly stated that His sheep hear His voice and will not follow the voice of a stranger. God doesn’t have a transmission problem, but we often have a reception issue. We must tune in to Him, like finding a radio station. The static in our lives can block out His voice.

If you desire to hear His voice, you will. The Lord has an answer for every issue you have in your life, but you must believe that He wants to speak to you. You need to position yourself to hear Him by quieting the distractions in your life. If we are angry or striving against others, our emotions will prevent us from hearing God’s voice. One of the most essential things to do is to withdraw yourself from the noise of your world to receive the signal God is sending your way. Quiet any anxiety in your soul as you find a quiet place to hear the Lord.

Be eager to listen to God by speaking less about your problems. Repent and receive forgiveness for any unresolved anger. Remember, the Bible states that holding on to anger gives the devil a foothold. Focus on the goodness of God and ask Him to open your pathways to hear and see Him more clearly. Keep consistent in seeking and finding. When you hear Him, write down what He says and do it. It’s all about relationship. Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.