One of the unpleasant moments in the life of a Christian is praying and waiting for God’s intervention in time of difficulties. You have faith in God’s promises but sometimes doubt or questions how it will be accomplished? Although we cannot totally get rid of doubts, (for it forms part of our human existence) however we should be aware that Faith connects us to God while doubts disconnects us! For doubts to clear, you must learn to LISTEN to the voice of God!
If you want to learn how to listen to God, read slowly…
cf John 10:22-30
“…It was winter, and Jesus was in the Temple walking up and down in the Portico of Solomon. The Jews gathered round him and said, ‘How much longer are you going to keep us in suspense? If you are the Christ, tell us plainly.’ Jesus replied:‘I have told you, but you do not believe.The works I do in my Father’s name are my witness; but you do not believe, because you are no sheep of mine.The sheep that belong to me listen to my voice; I know them and they follow me…”
POINTS FOR REFLECTION
1. Jesus walking “up and down” in the Temple during Winter (which is a way to keep himself warm) resembles our moods when we are surrounded by unpleasant situations: we toss to and fro, thinking and worried!
2. The “Jews” who gathered round Jesus to question him and express their doubts are like friends and neighbors who come to you as Consolers: some compound your problems by raising more doubts while others suggests solutions, and then you are left with conflicting thoughts: Faith mixed with doubts- incompatible friends!
3. For FAITH TO PREVAIL OVER DOUBT you MUST Learn to listen to the Voice of God! How, you ask me? God’s voice during crises may be very low but not silent! It is heard in (and always associated with) the WORD which contains: miracles and deeds of the Lord in the past, in your life and life of others, Peace, Love, Forgiveness, Patience, Tolerance and Truth!
4. If you find it hard to hear him in your heart, go to the Temple (the Church- the Tabernacle of his presence) Jesus is always there “walking up and down the Temple” ‘worried’ about your absence and waiting patiently for you to come and ask your many questions! However, be more attentive, listen more and speak less, lest you behave like the “unbelieving Jews” who are not part of his flock.
TASK: Do you know MEDITATION is a higher level of prayer than vocal prayers? In meditation you Listen to God speak to you! Now read this text once more. Ask God your many questions and ask him to speak to you.
STAY 30 MINUTES WITH AN UNDIVIDED HEART. IF YOUR THOUGHTS WANDER, RE-FOCUS ON THE WORD OF GOD AND STAY UNDISTURBED!
Secret: the more you desire, the more you hear him!
I pray the Lord to hear you and speak to your heart as he did to the prophets and Apostles in Jesus name. Amen.
