Whose Voice Do You Hear?
by Peter Meloy
The repercussions of the referendum recently held in the UK are still going on, and as I watched some of the speculation and reactions being played out on television I was reminded by the Lord of the moment, forty-three years ago, when the UK joined the (then) Common Market. Prime Minister Edward Heath was on television in Paris giving an acceptance speech on behalf of the British people – in not too fluent French!
His voice had been faded down to a low level and a translator was giving an English version of the speech. My seven year old son was watching this intently, and suddenly he stood up, crossed to the television and planted his ear over Edward Heath’s face. I asked him what he was doing and his reply was “I’m trying to listen to what that man is saying!” At the time I laughed at this but as I think upon it now I realise that there was something very deep in what my son had said.
How often do we listen to the wrong voice? All too frequently we ignore the gentle voice of the Lord and listen instead to the loud and persistent voice of the enemy, who is trying to lead us along the wrong path. The metaphorical earthquakes and fires of our daily lives take over and we find worries and doubts overtaking us. But when we remember that the Lord was in neither the earthquake nor the fire, then we should stop and listen out for His still, small voice – a voice which may say “what are you doing here?” His gentle voice may be calling us to other things.
The voice of the Lord always speaks quietly into our hearts, and speaks gentle words of encouragement into whatever burdens we may carry. Jesus bids us ‘Come to me all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest’ (Matthew 11:28). The noise of the world can so often drown out all else, but let’s diligently listen for the still, small voice that speaks peace into our hearts.
Prayer: Lord, I confess that I often allow the loud voice of the enemy to overcome Your still, small voice, which never fails to offer love and assurance. Please help me to blot out the ungodly noises of the world and to hear only your words of reassurance and inner peace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Peter Meloy Peter is part of the ministry team at Ellel Grange after completing the Modular courses there. He has a strong desire to see God's people healed and equipped for service in His name. He is married to Patricia and has two sons and five grandchildren. He enjoys walking, reading, singing with the local Music Society, and spending time with his family. Peter's working days were spent as a telecommunications engineer.
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