September 4, 2024

Luke 5.4, 14, 24, 27; 6.10 (NIV)

“Put out into deep water, and let down the nets . . . show yourself to the priest and offer the sacrifices . . . take up your mat and go home. . . Follow me . . . Stretch out your hand.” 

If and when God speaks to us, there will be no doubt who is talking, or what he is saying.*

In these verses, people are asked to do some seemingly illogical, or perhaps, merely unremarkable, things. They obeyed because Jesus said so. And some of them wouldn’t have known to do these things, logical or otherwise, until Jesus told them.

There have been times in my life when God directed me down a path for unknown reasons. Sometimes the reason was revealed later but many remain a mystery. Most of the occasions were probably to test my obedience. Other instances may have had eternal significance that he has chosen not to reveal to me.

Not only does God speak in unexplained ways, he also speaks in unexpected ways. From the person at a party who noted my hypocrisy; to reminders from my children (when they were small and now that they are adults); to a clear, small voice inside my own head, God has spoken to me. But do not forget that however else God might direct us, he will never contradict his written Word.*

If we let the Spirit . . . bring us face to face with God, we . . . shall hear . . . the still small voice of God.*