God speaks continually, but only the listening heart can hear His voice.
People are accustomed to speaking much to God and listening little. They bring before Him their desires, cares, and sorrows, yet seldom remain in silence with a heart ready to receive what the Lord wishes to reveal. Prayer is not only man’s word to God; it is also the soul’s openness to His work.
The one who learns to listen begins to recognize the Lord’s voice in the Scriptures, in the words of the Holy Fathers, in the gentle rebuke of conscience, in wise counsel, and even in the trials God permits for his good. Grace often speaks without noise, and the hurried heart passes by without noticing.
Do not ask only for answers. Ask also for a heart willing to receive the truth, even when that truth calls you to change. God does not speak to satisfy human curiosity, but to heal the soul.
Blessed is the one who listens not only with his ears, but with his whole life. Such a person turns every word of God into action, and every action into prayer.
“Speak, Lord, for Your servant is listening.” (1 Samuel 3:10)
