Hearing His Voice
For Our Benefit – Part 1

Scripture Reading: John 12:27-33

Key Verse: John 12:30

Jesus said, “This voice was for your benefit, not mine.

In our scripture for today’s reading, we see that Jesus understood that His death was close at hand.  He did start to pray to be relieved of this mission, but He quickly allowed His spirit to rule His flesh and said, “No, it was for this very reason I came to this hour” (vs. 27).  Jesus surrendered to His Father’s plan with the words: “Father, glorify your name!”  Then a voice from heaven was heard by Jesus and the crowd that surrounded Him.  Jesus turned to the crowd and told them that the audible voice was for their benefit.

            I like that thought, we can hear God’s voice—God sees it as a benefit to us.  However, I am not thinking we will hear an audible voice—I never have!  However, the Bible makes it clear that God will communicate with us.  God’s voice is most often a mental reminder of a Bible verse that we have read.  That reminder is God helping us stay centered in His purposes for our life.  For example, one morning my routine was interrupted.  I knew I was suddenly short on time.  My first thought was to skip my normal prayer time and get to my other work.  As I started that way, I had a thought: “If I prayed first, wouldn’t God help me get my work done even more efficiently?”  I believe that was God’s voice reminding me of Jesus’ words: “Pray and never give up” (Luke 18:1).  I obeyed that reminder and accomplished all that I needed to do!  (Continued)

Father, I can easily forget your instructions for daily living.  Please keep reminding me and I will follow obediently!  In Jesus’ name, amen.