Tim Keller has a Daily Devotional called, “The Songs of Jesus” through the Psalms. Ask, ask, ask God to speak to you. So many times in the Bible, we are urged to ask God. He does not force His friendship upon us, it is an invitation. This humble practice of asking is the window in which His voice will come. A yearly read of Andrew Murray’s, Humility, will be a lifeline for your soul.
Keep a list going of what is good, the ways God has answered prayers, in the way you prayed, or in unexpected ways. Writing these down in a journal will help you in the now, and in the rear view mirror. It also will give you eyes to see the goodness of God, and feel His love more. This is the best way to start your day and also your daily time in practicing the presence of God, and make as breath prayers throughout the day.
Some amazing books about getting to know who Jesus really is! It can help you get to know Him as a person and His personality, to be in better friendship with Him.
Reading the Bible is an active experience of listening to God. When you open your Bible and not sure what to read and where to start, The Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, & John) and Psalms and Proverbs are a great place, in whatever version you are most comfortable with. I like reading different versions, it keeps it fresh, especially if you have grown up reading and hearing about the Bible. The Message version is a paraphrase that is modern., Before you start reading, it is a good practice to start with a short prayer inviting God into your time of reading and learning, and even picturing Him near you. Maybe even light a candle to remind you of His calm warm Presence with you while you read. Listening to the Bible, and having God’s Word read over you is also a special way to experience the Living Words of God. Write in your journal things that made your heart pang, and then ask Him if He has anything to say to you. Sit in the stillness, and it may come immediately, or even later in the day, or week ahead. When you sense it is His voice, write it down. It will always be in the character of who He is, and in complete alignment with His written word, The Bible.
