04/30/2026
Why Can’t I Hear God’s Voice?
Hebrew 5:11; Jeremiah 33:3; Luke 10:40-42; Matthew 6:33; Proverbs 28:9
Although God is still speaking to His Church and His people, some believers struggle to hear His voice. Why? Though the details may vary, the following are among the three most significant reasons why God’s voice isn’t always clear to us.
PRAYERLESSNESS. As someone well said, "Prayerlessness is our Declaration of Independence from God." When we rely on our own strength and ingenuity rather than seeking His help, passion for the things of God begins to fade—and so does His once-familiar voice. We become like those of whom the writer of Hebrews wrote: "dull of hearing" (He 5:11, NKJV). But when we pray—and pause long enough to listen—He promises to commune with us. As He said through the prophet Jeremiah, "Call to me and I will answer you, and will tell you great and hidden things that you have not known" (Jer 33:3, NKJV).
MISPLACED PRIORITIES. Few obstacles to hearing from God are more subtle than misplaced priorities because, as someone observed, "good things take the place of the most important things."
On one of Jesus' visits to Mary and Martha's home, Mary sat at His feet listening to Him teach while Martha "was distracted with much serving" (Lu 10:40, NKJV). When an irate Martha asked Jesus to intervene, He replied gently, "Martha, Martha, you are worried and troubled about many things. But one thing is needed, and Mary has chosen that good part, which will not be taken away from her" (v 41). The lesson for us: Not even our service to Him can replace time spent “sitting at His feet” and listening to His voice. For as Jesus Himself reminded us, "Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness" (Mt 6:33, NKJV). If we will, His voice will become clearer.
UNCONFESSED SIN. Unconfessed sin also creates a barrier that hinders our ability to hear from God and limits His response to our prayers. As Solomon warned, “If one turns away his ear from hearing the law, even his prayer is an abomination” (Prov 28:9, NKJV). But when we confess and turn from sin, fellowship is restored—and with it, the ability to hear His voice (1 Jn 1:9, NKJV ).
When we draw near to God, adjust our priorities, and walk clean before Him, we’ll discover that His voice is no longer dim — it is unmistakenly clear.
Prayer: Jesus, help me to keep my priorities properly aligned and not neglect fellowship with You through Your Word and prayer.
Copyright 2026 Anne Wilkins
