Why doesn’t God talk to me?

This is a question I have heard many times from individuals both within my practice and without. This questions is usually asked with undertones of frustration and sadness, maybe even some anger at God’s standoffishness. Every time I hear the question, two other questions come to my mind.

What does God sound like, and what does he say?

Are there particular words or ways of communicating that we think are more “godly” than others? Is there a tone of voice or language we expect God to use? What if the voice of God in your life in particular says something with a cadence and a timbre you simply aren’t expecting, and that’s why you don’t hear him? What if his way of being near you is so natural and subtle that it doesn’t feel “spiritual” enough?

I often go to God for answers to questions like, why? or what should I do? or how should I pray? Often I believe the response I get is like the way Jesus engaged with people in the gospels: he asks ME a question.

Perhaps he says, “Do you see the way the light shines on the coat of your dog?” or “Did you notice that slight, quiet breeze that sent the blossoms of the tree into the air just now?”

Sometimes I forget the parts of God that aren’t powerful, loud or dramatic. I forget that he is also gentle, peaceful and kind. He longs to delight me with what is common, close and uncomplicated. He is always calling me to hear his tender voice, his slow breathing, his wonder-filled eyes as he looks at even me! He invites me into an experience of his presence that only stillness can perceive.

When you, dear one, are desperate for answers or direction of miracles, listen to see what questions God may be asking you. Sometimes, no, ALWAYS, his questions are better than our own. Sometimes his invitation to hear and see him require us to lay aside our expectations and open ourselves to waht he can say into the quiet of a resting soul.