It is breathtaking to think that mere humans can have conversations with the one who created the heavens and the earth. Yet the Bible assures us we can, that the creator of everything is also our loving Father.
When you were young, didn’t you ask your father or mother for whatever you needed, then trust your parent to provide it? Jesus promises us, in effect, “If you, imperfect as all humans are, give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Heavenly Father give good things to all who ask him for them” (Matthew 7:11).
In God’s wonderful creation, He has provided food and shelter for everything from oysters and earthworms to sparrows and eagles, deer and elephants. The God who takes good care of birds and flowers will look after us “much more” if we give him his rightful place in our lives (Matthew 6:26-33).
God longs to talk with you even more than you want to speak to Him. Here are four ways He speaks to us:
1. God speaks through nature.
The glory of God is revealed in the universe with its billions of galaxies and the intelligent order revealed in every creature, every flower, every atom and sub-atom. Psalm 19:1 tells us: “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.”
2. God speaks in our hearts.
Everyone in the world knows that it is wrong to steal, to lie, to kill, to harm others. God’s law is written on our hearts, as the Apostle Paul says in Romans 2:14-15: “Indeed, when Gentiles, who do not have the law, do by nature things required by the law, they are a law for themselves…since they show that the requirements of the law are written on their hearts.”
3. God speaks through Scripture.
“All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness… (2 Timothy 3:16). As we read the Bible faithfully, God’s will for us becomes more and more clear.
4. God speaks to us through Jesus Christ, the Living Word.
“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us” (John 1:1,14). Jesus has experienced every trial we have. He knows how hard life can be–but he also knows the way out. Therefore, through him we can find “grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:16).
As you come into God’s presence, your prayers need not be long or fancy. Martin Luther said, “The fewer words, the better prayer.”
Your Father knows your needs better than you do–and is waiting to help you. “Before they call I will answer; while they are still speaking I will hear” (Isaiah 65:24).
So make your prayers–and your life–a conversation with your Almighty Father.
