The Voice Within

I once had a discussion with my Dad (God rest his soul) about whether . . .

[What does that mean, "God rest his soul?" Are we hoping that God will rest his soul? Will his soul be at unrest if we don't say it? Is it a cute little phrase in which we subtly indicate that the person is deceased? Are we imploring God to do just that? Just wondering.]

We had a bit of disagreement on whether it was all right to have women preachers. (My Dad's Methodist church had one.) I quoted Paul the Apostle, who said that he did not permit a woman to teach a man. Dad responded that he had also read that passage, had consulted commentaries and knowledgeable individuals; however, not getting a satisfactory answer, he said that he finally "went straight to The Source."

I have to admit that I was a little put out that he had a direct line to God, when I was the self-appointed Biblical expert in the family. He wasn't really clear about what the answer was, but he indicated that it was sufficient enough for him to accept his lady pastor.

Now that he's gone, I have often reflected on that comment about going directly to God. I know that we pray. And I know the classic response that Bible teachers and preachers will give --- God always answers: sometimes "yes", sometimes "no" and sometimes "wait." But am I really seeking his will for my life, or am I just presenting a shopping list of concerns --- or a gift registry for him to fill?

The heart of the matter is that God is always ready to teach us about everything we need for this life --- and some of what we will need for the next (or rather the continued) life. He encourages us to test the words of those around us who tell us about him, because they are human, with human frailties. He wants us to test the words of the Bible (his Word?), because it was written by frail humans.

The Holy Spirit is God's voice in us. Jesus promised it to us. He is Comforter, Admonisher and Teacher. Jesus? Yes. The Spirit? Yes. God? Absolutely!

Here's the problem. We don't listen. Enough. We know what we want to ask. We know what we want to hear. We know what we've been taught. If we have ears to hear, we MUST beware the "truth" of the religious majority. That's what Jesus warned about. The truth may well be there, but be willing (and daring) enough to seek God's confirmation --- in your own heart.

If you get it wrong, you'll know --- eventually. He is patient and loving, willing to correct and direct when we're willing to get the wax out of our ears. His discipline is a demonstration of his love, and the comforting, correcting voice will always follow. Listen.

Lord, do with me as you will.
STEVE