Not Just Words

by Jane Josephs

“I love the Lord, for he heard my voice…” –Psalm 116:1a

“Finding your voice” is a phrase often used by writers to indicate confidence, authenticity, and a style of writing that reveals their inner self. Could that be what the psalmist had more in mind when he asserted, “I love the Lord, for he heard my voice…”? Or is voice more than just our choice of words?

Defined literally, “voice” is the sound produced in a person’s larynx and uttered through the mouth as speech or song. It’s our primary way of communicating and connecting to others, although much could be said for body language, too. As I’ve meditated on the psalmist’s words these last few weeks, I’ve gained a deeper appreciation for his thoughts and his intimacy with God. It would seem that the Lord not only heard the psalmist’s words, He heard his heart.

We read many places in scripture about the sound of God’s voice. We’re exhorted to listen for it and heed it. To feel awe and respect. But how often do we think about how we sound to God? Are we whining? Apathetic? Overcome with sorrow? Rejoicing in some answer to prayer? Our voice conveys all of these emotions and more.

Will you join me this week in letting the Lord hear your voice? If you’ve never felt comfortable praying out loud, why not give it a try? I think you’ll find that prayer is so much more than just words.

Dear Lord, we praise and bless You for fearfully and wonderfully making us, and for giving us a voice with which to show You how much we love You. Help us this week to go deeper with You, to a place where we can know You more fully and be more fully known. Amen.