Can You Hear Me Now?

Adult Devotional on Being Still, Listening and Knowing God

"Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!" Psalm 46:10 (ESV).

Being still has never been harder. We’re constantly bombarded by a steady stream of notifications, messages, and entertainment—smart phones, computers, tablets, radios, TVs. From sunrise to sunset, the sights and sounds never stop. Can you relate?

In our over stimulated world, unplugging isn’t just wise; it’s essential. Some of us stay “plugged-in” to avoid facing reality. As long as our minds are full of noise, we don’t have to think about our decisions, our relationships with others, or our relationship with our Creator. For others, constant noise is simply a habit—background sounds for working, playing, or even falling asleep.

On a recent bike ride, I came up behind a speed walker wearing earphones. The path was narrow, so I called out, “Good morning!” No response. I tried again, a bit louder, “Good morning! Hello, behind you!” Still nothing. Slowing down to pass safely, I called out one more time. She never looked up or acknowledged me.

It made me think of how God calls to us above the clamor of our lives. “Can you hear Me now?” He asks. When there's a steady stream of noise in our lives and we're always "plugged-in," we are allowing the world to shape our minds and determine our thoughts, which makes cultivating a deeper relationship with God more difficult. The Holy Spirit can certainly penetrate the constant din—and one way or another if he wants to get our attention he will get through, but how much more readily we’ll hear Him if we create intentional stillness.

When we pause to reflect on God’s goodness, meditate on His Word, and simply be present with Him, we give our souls space to breathe. In that quiet, we begin to hear Him more clearly—sometimes, for the first time.

The Apostle Paul reminds us: "Whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things." —Philippians 4:8–9 (ESV)

What “noises” or distractions in your life make it hard for you to hear God?

What is one practical step you can take this week to unplug and create quiet space for God to speak?

Let's Pray
Dear God, help me unplug from the noise and distractions of life. Teach me to be still so I can hear You, obey You, and use my talents to serve You more effectively. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Copyright 2012 / 2025 Sarah A. Keith
SundaySchoolNetwork.com

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