Hi, guys —
For some background information, I am a male in the age range of 16-18, living in America. I often hear the phrase, "Listen, and you will know what to do." I have often heard this whenever I talk to my Church's priest, who, whenever talking about how he became a priest, says that he spent time alone in Church. listening.
- Although I understand the concept of sitting quietly in a Church and listening, what exactly should one listen for?
- If I pray and ask God for guidance on what I should do for the rest of my life (job, talents, etc.), is there a cue I listen for?
- It is something that pops into my head.
- Is God actually talking to me
(I know this sounds unlikely, but I just want you to give me some examples.)
- Does something happen?
I know that God acts in many ways, but when I pray and try to be silent and still, I feel nothing, hear nothing, and understand no more than I did when I began praying.
I'm asking for not only an explanation of this phrase that many have talked about but also for guidance on the matter of what I should do (or what am I doing wrong). I apologize for the long question and understand if this question does not get answered.
Either way, I thank you for your time, appreciate your answer (if any), and hope you have the best life any person could ever ask for!
God bless you.
Thank you,
Zeb |
Bob replied:
Dear Zeb,
I know the frustration that you are feeling. I wish it were easier to hear God's voice when we pray, but God is mysterious and speaks in ways that are non-verbal. I have had clear times when I understood God was speaking to me, yet there was no audible voice. Rather, there was a sense of something that was clear. You may not even get anything when you pray in silence, but rather have an "a—ha" moment when you are away from prayer.
Listening to God takes the long game; it just doesn't happen on demand but rather in His time. While you focus on listening, be sure and read Scripture, do Eucharistic Adoration, and just ask God to help you learn how to listen. Perseverance and persistence will bring fruit; just give it time.
Peace,
Bob Kirby
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