It is clear that, perfect faith cannot exist where the will of God is not know. It is, after all, the knowledge of His will that gives us the confidence we have in regard to our salvation. It is the knowledge of His will for our lives that gives us peace in troubled times, “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end” (Jer 29:11).

Jesus made it clear through His life and ministry that He only did those things, which he knew to be His Father’s will. He emphatically taught on the importance of hearing God’s voice in Mark chapter 4 and once quoted Deuteronomy in Luke 4:4 saying, “Man shall not live by bread alone but by every Word that preceedeth out of the mouth of God.”

As a Pastor, one of the most common questions I’m asked is, “How can I hear God’s voice?” It’s a good question! The ability to “hear” in the Christian’s spiritual life is just as important as the ability to hear our natural lives. One cannot even hope to possess adequate faith without the ability to “hear” (perceive, consider, and understand the voice of God) for the Bible says, “Faith comes by hearing…” (Rom 10:17).

Have you ever known someone with a hearing disability? Helen Keller had many disabilities but she stated that deafness was a “greater affliction”. I’m sure you’ve noticed that those with hearing disabilities often have difficulty speaking. Hearing is so integral to our lives that it even affects our ability to speak. This shows us great insight into why the Christian community has so much trouble praying; without the ability to “hear” God’s voice we are bankrupt in the place of prayer.

WHAT should we pray?

WHEN should we pray?

HOW should we pray?

All of these questions would be answered in a moment if our ears were tuned to the voice of He who calls us to prayer.

“He that hath an ear to hear, let him hear…”