"So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God." (Romans 10:17, KJV)
In our daily lives, we are bound by the commands of authority figures––parents, teachers, employers, spiritual leaders, and higher powers. Yet, we often choose to selectively hear only what suits our beliefs while casting aside the rest. Sometimes we use flimsy excuses to justify our disobedience, claiming that we never heard the instructions in the first place.
For example, growing up at home, our parents may have handed us a list of chores to complete, but we only paid attention to the new tasks they added, ignoring their reminder to also finish our usual duties. In school, our teacher could’ve explicitly instructed us to show our work for a crucial math problem on the test. Yet, we arrogantly wrote down the answer without including the “show your work” step. And at work, it's clearly stated that vacation requests must be submitted three weeks in advance–– a rule we intentionally disregard as we submit ours just one week before our desired dates.
Our rebellion against authority is evident at every age and stage of our lives.
Every night, I battled with the torment of insomnia. My mind raced with worries and fears, leaving me desperate for a reprieve. So, on this night, I prayed fervently to God, begging to hear His voice. I needed an answer to why I couldn't sleep, and I wanted it to be specific.
But even though I strained my ears, all I heard was silence. Frustrated and restless, I turned to my bible and began reading, seeking solace in its words. As I drifted off, Mark 4:39 swirled in my head, "And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm." Little did I know that this verse would hold the key to my elusive peace.
The next evening, as I shared this experience with my bible study group, naive and eager as a newborn believer, they chuckled at the story. Confused, I asked why they were laughing.
That’s when one of them revealed the truth––my answer had been in that scripture all along. It was a passage I had read but ignored God’s authority to be able to bring me comfort and peace. God had used his word to bring peace to my troubled mind and allow me to finally fall asleep.
Looking back on that moment as a new believer, I realized the power of God's word and how it can bring calmness even during chaos. It was a lesson that would stay with me for years to come.
The foundations of one's faith tunnels deep into the earth, fueled by the roaring thunderstorm of God’s word crashing down upon the soul. The intensity and electrifying power of His message sparks a wildfire within the heart, forging an unbreakable bond between believer and Creator. With every echoing syllable, faith streams forth, filling every inch of being with unwavering devotion and absolute trust in the Almighty.
Only through the act of truly listening can one cultivate an unshakable faith in the ever-present and all-consuming love of God.
Prayer: Father God, I am humbled by the power of faith and your words that echo through my mind and pierce my heart. I am grateful for the unwavering guidance you provide, leading me on a path of righteousness and fulfillment. Let your presence surround me like a shield, protecting me from doubt and fear as I continue to walk in faith. Amen.
Your turn: Have you ever struggled to hear from God? Why do you think you have? Did you ever experience breakthrough? How did it happen? We would love to hear from you!