One of the most powerful scriptures on the way the Holy Ghost communicates with us is found in 1 Kings 19:11-12. The Lord invites Elijah to go and “stand upon the mount before the Lord.”
And, behold, the Lord passed by, and a great and strong wind rent the mountains, and brake in pieces the rocks before the Lord; but the Lord was not in the wind: and after the wind an earthquake; but the Lord was not in the earthquake:
And after the earthquake a fire; but the Lord was not in the fire: and after the fire a still small voice.
We often cite this scripture to remind ourselves that the whisperings of the Spirit are just that—whisperings. We are more likely to communicate with God through quiet, small moments rather than loud, obvious ones. However, tuning ourselves to this gentle and guiding feeling can be difficult.
Consider these three ways to better hear the still, small voice of God in your life.
Increase in Emotional Intelligence
Though we may not face literal fires and earthquakes, we will certainly combat emotional winds that threaten to topple us over. While the Lord is with us through all our trials, He understands that trying to communicate with us when we are full of raging emotions won’t normally work. We’re too full of other things to be filled with His guidance and direction.
This is alright! The Lord understands and waits with us. We can become more receptive by learning about emotions and how to manage them in healthy ways. When we are emotionally intelligent, we can name our emotions, understand why we are experiencing them, and communicate our feelings effectively with others.
By better understanding our emotions, we make room for the voice of God to entreat us.
Create Small, Sacred Spaces
The Holy Ghost can work within us no matter where we are or what we’re going through, but we’ll be more likely to feel the Spirit’s influence by creating small, sacred spaces within our lives. There is so much to distract us and many distorting voices. We need spaces to disconnect from the world and connect with God.
Find a spot in your home that is solely for pondering and prayer. This could be in a special chair, a part of your room, or in a closet. Try to keep this area free from clutter. Go there when you want to talk to God.
You can also create sacred places in your car, at work, or outdoors. Look for those areas you can escape to each day and spend a few minutes pondering on the divine.
Seek Learning Through Study & Faith
One of the easiest ways to connect with the still, small voice is by seeking it through diligent gospel study. Wherever you’re at, you can begin today to improve your study habits. Try not to focus on getting it done, but on what your soul hungers for. Look for answers in the scriptures, General Conference talks, and other inspired materials. As you study, your mind and spirit will be enriched. You’ll become more receptive to God’s voice.
What has helped you connect with the still, small voice?
Aleah is a graduate of Southern Virginia University, where she studied English, Creative Writing, and Dance. She now works full time as a marketing and product manager, writer, and editor. She currently hosts the podcast “Single to the Glory” about singlehood in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Aleah served a mission in California and loves baking, Lang Leav poetry, Gaynor Minden pointe shoes, and Bollywood movies.
