He can … – Day 13
He wants to speak to us
Bible text(s)
2 Chronicles 7
Jeremiah 33
2 Chronicles 16
In response to the previous piece, a reader asked the following question: “I understand the importance of reading the Bible, but I struggle to pray? It feels as if there is a blockage of some sorts. Can you please help?”
Think for a moment about a river. Although the water initially flows quickly, it may happen that branches, leaves, soil and even stones are swept away with it. Once it reaches a narrow passage in the riverbed, the accumulated debris causes a blockage that slows the water and even brings it to a halt.
In our lives, the flow of the Holy Spirit can be compared to the water in the riverbed. At times the Lord’s voice is clear. At other times, we struggle to hear it due to the “debris” causing blockages in our lives. Blockages occur in the form of bitterness, an unforgiving heart, pride, deliberate sins that we do not confess, disobedience to a command from God or even rebellion against God. It robs us of our freedom to speak to God – and even our ability to hear the Holy Spirit’s voice.
However, there is grace and forgiveness when we identify these blockages, repent and turn away from it. In 2 Chronicles 7:14-15, God says, “Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land. My eyes will be open and my ears attentive to every prayer made in this place.” In Jeremiah 33:3, God says, “Call to Me, and I will answer you.” And in 2 Chronicles 16:9 we read: “For the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him.”
God wants to speak to us. Let us bend down to the riverbed and remove the “branches, leaves, soil and stones” in our lives causing hindrances in our relationship with God. We might just stand amazed at how crisp and clear His voice actually can be. God bless you.
Assignment for the day: Take a pen and paper and sit down with an open heart to God. Ask Him to show you if there is anything that causes a blockage between you and Him. Write it down. Confess it and choose to turn away from it.
