I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving, and that you were able to find a connection with God’s word from our devotion last week. This week, we will continue with our thoughts about hearing God’s “voice” in our lives and the various ways God might offer that “voice” to us (from Mark Batterson’s book, Whisper). A couple weeks ago, we talked about “hearing” God’s voice through the Bible. The Word of God or the scriptures are a springboard that enables us to experience God’s presence in our lives in very real ways. I hope you have had an opportunity to read a Bible and feel God’s presence commending you or convicting you. Either way, it’s an important step in our spiritual development.

Well, you’ll remember that I was going to check out some hearing aids because the family thinks I have trouble hearing them. I did check some out but haven’t bought anything yet. So, I guess I’m still “hearing impaired”.

Another way we may be able to overcome our spiritual impairment of hearing God’s voice are through our desires. Not just any “worldly” desire mind you, but desires of our hearts in and through the way God made us. “Take delight in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart” (Psalm 37:4).

What does that mean for us? Well, do you have a passion in your life that is undeniable? A passion that drives you for some purpose that is beyond yourself or for the benefit of others. Perhaps you have a desire to see stray animals cared for, the homeless to find shelter, or the poor to achieve self-sustainability. Maybe there is a passion that involves a desire altogether different; like dancing or writing or helping people solve their problems by being a good listener.

Has there been a passion to serve God through a specific purpose that just hasn’t burned out? That just keeps speaking to you in the middle of the night? That just keeps pulling your focus in another direction? That just keeps you questioning if you should be striving for something else? That could be God’s voice, calling you to put purpose with your passion, and giving you the “desire” of your heart.

To be sure, more often than not, it takes testing and trying to discern God’s voice in the midst of the desires the world has for us. But if it’s really God, and really his plan and purpose for you, He will prevail. I hope you will reflect on the passions God gives you to make a difference in the world, and in that, find God’s voice speaking to your life through this desire.

Tim Beck is pastor of Kenbridge United Methodist Church. His email address is revtimbeck@gmail.com.