I have found that God speaks to us in many different ways, He sends "His Word" to us, sometimes when we least expect it.
I have learned to listen for the "voice of God" when my faith is tested. Of course I search the Scriptures and I might choose a preaching CD or podcast on the topic of my trial, but mostly I spend my times of testing just listening. His voice may come in the form of something I see, or through a conversation with a total stranger, (yes I do talk to strangers, regardless of what Ronnie James Dio says, haha). The Word from God may come through a friend or a spiritual leader. It may come through a preaching or from a book. Regardless of where it does come from, one thing is certain; If you are not listening, you will miss it. If you remain focused on the problem then the solution may slip right on by.
What I love most about God, and there are many reasons I do love Him, but one main reason is, His still small voice. He comes to me with a still small voice and the quietness of it drowns out all the chaos and noise of trouble. He has taught me to listen when my world is crumbling around me and though sometimes this may seem impossible, and I can hear you now screaming at me 'But You Dont Know What I Am Going Through!' I can promise you this, He does.
If you find yourself struggling through trouble stop where you are, cease all effort to free yourself and listen for His still small voice. It will come. When your mind demands that you think upon your troubles, take that thought captive, make it obedient to Christ and be still and listen. If you can remain expectant and stand back from the worry or the pain or even the fear, then you can be sure you have positioned yourself to hear from God and even more sure He will be faithful and not leave you without direction.
I hope you find yourself on the far side of your valley today, ready for the trek up the mountain of promise. God Bless!
