You may be wondering why I’m writing about this, and to tell you the truth, I don’t know why but I know it’ll act as a good reflection upon myself for the time being.
Every day on this journey, I’m learning something new—whether it be learning how to deal with my character and not overstep the line of where I need to be, or learning how to be more in tune with those around me, I feel as if I’m being taught something new and I love it.
Something else that I’ve been relearning is knowing when God speaks—allowing Him to quiet my soul and say what He needs to say.
To tell you the truth, it’s not easy distinguishing the voice of God when distractions are present. Everyday there’s so much to do that I’m only left with making up excuses to not hear from God because of how “busy” I am. And even if it’s selfish of me to do that, there will always be a tug in my heart that alerts me to act more humbly and submit. This only makes me fully aware that I am not more important than what my Creator has set out for me, and that if He wants to tell me something, I better listen up and obey because I might miss my chance at something that could change my life.
As I was talking to my mom yesterday, I reminded her of the plan I have set out for myself in the future. Again, it’s not set in stone, but it’s been a desire of mine for the longest time. My response back from her was, “Emily, I know you’re a person of your word and you love accomplishing your goals and making your dreams come true, but remember it’s not up to you.”
To tell you the truth, it doesn’t bother me to hear the same thing over and over again. I also don’t consider myself to be stubborn, but when I have goals for myself, I like to act straight on it and have it as my main focus. Lately, I will admit, I’ve been stubborn in remembering a specific promise from God and actually allowing Him to do exactly what He said He would do.
It wasn’t until today when I clearly heard God speak to me that humbled my heart into wanting what He wants. A word was given out that only swept my will away based on His words alone.
“I promise you what I promised Moses: ‘Wherever you set foot, you will be on land I have given you—
No one will be able to stand against you as long as you live. For I will be with you as I was with Moses. I will not fail you or abandon you.”
Joshua 1:3, 5 NLT
“Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do. This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.””
Joshua 1:8-9 NLT
Even with these words CLEARLY giving the intention that God is doing what He said He would do, I was reminded that I am nothing when it comes to God’s plan, but notice how gracious He is when it comes to reminding you of what He’s said before.
It will always be less of me and more of Him. At the end, no matter what, God will prevail and show He is greater above all things.
Perhaps you too have been struggling or even wrestled with the promises God has given to you due to impatience or whatever else it may be, but I just want to say His mercy is new everyday. He doesn’t look down on you as an ungrateful or impatient human. He’s slow to anger, abounding in love, and He only wants you to submit. Fully submit and know He is GOD.
If only you take the time and sit still in the midst of the noise all around you, He will speak. But also remember even in the slightest whispers He has something to say. You just have to intently tune your ears toward Him and He will make it known.
And yes, it may be hard to know He is speaking when there’s so much going on, but if you intentionally want to hear Him, know he speaks through His word too. There’s nothing more true than His words actually written in the book that only breathes life. He’s waiting for you to hear Him.
As for you, God, say what You need to say, because here I am and I want to listen.
