Son or Slave | Part 3 | Hearing God’s Voice in a Noisy World
In today’s world, where countless voices and distractions compete for our attention, hearing God’s voice can feel like trying to tune in to a faint radio signal amidst static. Yet, as Pastor Jonathan shares through the timeless story of the prodigal son, God is always speaking—waiting for us to listen and respond. Let’s explore how to tune into God’s frequency, embrace His truth, and walk in the restored relationship He offers through Jesus Christ.
The Power of Hearing the Father’s Voice
In John 10:27, Jesus says, "My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me." This simple yet profound statement reminds us that as followers of Christ, we are expected to hear His voice and follow His lead. But how do we discern His voice among the noise?
Pastor Jonathan likened this to a moment he experienced in a busy store. Amidst the bustling atmosphere, he recognized the distinct voice of his earthly father. That familiar voice instantly triggered feelings of security, love, and provision—qualities that mirror our heavenly Father’s voice. The key is developing that intimate relationship with God, where His voice becomes unmistakably clear, even in life’s chaos.
The Prodigal Son: A Lesson in Truth and Restoration
The parable of the prodigal son, as told in Luke 15, offers a profound reflection of God’s heart for restoration. The story follows a son who, lured by lies and empty promises, leaves the safety of his father’s home, squanders his inheritance, and ends up in despair. Yet, in his lowest moment, he makes a pivotal decision: to return to his father in repentance and humility.
Pastor Jonathan emphasizes that this story isn’t just about a wayward son—it’s about the father’s love and Jesus’ role in our restoration. Through Jesus, God reveals His mercy, forgiveness, and acceptance. "At your worst choice, God made His best choice about you," Pastor Jonathan reminds us. The prodigal son could offer nothing to earn his restoration, but by returning in humility, he experienced the overwhelming grace of his father.
Why God’s Truth Sets Us Free
At the heart of hearing God’s voice lies the battle between truth and lies. In the Garden of Eden, Adam and Eve lived in perfect truth until they believed a lie, leading to separation from God. Today, we face a similar choice: to believe the truth of God’s Word or the lies of the world.
Jesus came to reveal the truth, and His life, death, and resurrection confirmed it. As Pastor Jonathan highlights, "The truth is confirmed by evidence." Jesus’ works, His resurrection, and the transformative power of His Word in our lives testify to this truth. By embracing God’s truth, we dismantle the lies that hold us captive and walk in the freedom He provides.
Turning Your Pain into Purpose
Pastor Jonathan’s personal testimony serves as a powerful reminder of God’s redemptive power. From hitting rock bottom to experiencing the transformative grace of God, his journey illustrates how one decision can alter the course of a lifetime. "Your prison is your pulpit, your mess is your message, and your misery is your ministry," he shares, encouraging us to use our struggles as a platform to minister to others.
Whether it’s addiction, broken relationships, or past mistakes, God can take what the enemy meant for evil and use it for good. The key lies in making a decision—to turn to God, believe His truth, and allow Him to work through us.
How to Tune Into God’s Frequency
Hearing God’s voice is more than just reading the Bible—it’s about seeing Jesus in the Bible and cultivating a relationship with Him. The Pharisees in Jesus’ time missed the mark by studying the Scriptures without understanding that they pointed to Him. As Pastor Jonathan puts it, "Tune into God’s frequency by seeing Jesus in the Word."
To hear God’s voice clearly, we must:
Spend time in prayer and ask the Holy Spirit for guidance.
Immerse ourselves in God’s Word, seeking to understand His character and promises.
Be sensitive to the Holy Spirit’s leading in our daily lives.
Stay connected to a community of faith to grow and be encouraged.
Making the Most Important Decision
At the core of the prodigal son’s story is the power of a decision. He chose to return to his father, and that act of humility opened the door to restoration. Similarly, we have the opportunity to make a decision today—to trust in Jesus, turn from our own ways, and embrace the life He has for us.
Pastor Jonathan’s closing question resonates deeply: "What is God saying to you today? What decision is He calling you to make?" Whether it’s returning to Him, letting go of past hurts, or stepping into your calling, the choice is yours.
Conclusion: Embrace the Father’s Voice
God is always speaking, inviting us into a deeper relationship with Him. By tuning into His voice and embracing His truth, we can experience the freedom, love, and purpose that only He provides. Let the story of the prodigal son remind you of the Father’s open arms and the incredible restoration He offers through Jesus Christ.
If you’re ready to make a decision or need prayer, don’t hesitate. Reach out to someone, pray with our team, and take that first step toward hearing God’s voice and walking in His truth. What decision will you make today? The Father is calling—will you listen?
