In order for an NFL team to be great, it requires a quarterback and head coach to be closely connected with strong communication. A coach needs to be able to advise his QB on what to look out for, what play to call and tell him where the ball needs to go.
One of the ways this happens during a game is through a head coach’s headset and a QB’s helmet. It’s wild technology when you think about it because a coach can be in a player’s ear until it shuts off when the play clock gets to 15 seconds.
One of the QB-Coach duos that really utilizes and relies on this communication system is the Los Angels Rams’ Jared Goff and Sean McVay.
The team is 3-0 to start the season, but on Sunday night Goff was having some issues hearing his coach. I was listening to a conversation about this situation on the Dan Patrick Show and McLovin said, “Did you guys notice when Goff couldn’t hear Sean McVay? There were several plays...I mean it makes sense, but he was lost when he didn’t have McVay in his ear…”
Dan Patrick responded, “I understand that...you’re so used to that and you’re so used to his voice there, when it’s not there, then it's taking you out of your rhythm.”
The problem was eventually fixed, but it’s clear that Goff needs to hear the voice of his head coach in order for him to thrive and accomplish what needs to be done on the field.
As followers of Jesus, the same is true when it comes to us needing to hear the voice of God.
“The Lord says, 'I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you'” (Psalm 32:8; NLT).
When we’re in close communication with God and really connected, we will clearly hear His voice. We will sense the direction He’s leading us, He’ll provide the wisdom we need to make decisions, and give us any warnings about what dangers lie ahead.
However, there are times when we can’t seem to hear His voice in our "ear" and just like what was said about Goff, "When it’s not there, then it’s taking you out of your rhythm.” Likewise, we can feel lost when all we hear is silence.
When we find ourselves needing to resume hearing His voice, it usually requires us to confess sin in our life, surrender our own plans, remove distractions, open His Word, and be silent ourselves.
The Bible says, in James 4:8 (AMP), "Come close to God and He will come close to you…”
We can also be encouraged in 1 John 1:9 (AMP): "If we admit that we have sinned and confess our sins, He is faithful and just , and will forgive our sins and cleanse us continually from all unrighteousness .”
Seeking God and listening for His voice is a daily opportunity and an incredible privilege. Let’s remain unhindered and not allow anything to get in the way of hearing His voice.
At the same time, let’s rest in knowing there are times when He chooses to be silent for a specific purpose. In those moments, let’s remain patient, keep listening, and at the right time, we will hear His next instruction.
I’m Bryce Johnson and you can UNPACK that!
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, it's amazing that You're willing to speak to me personally and You're so gracious to lead me and guide me. Please forgive me for the sin in my life and cleanse me. I know I'm forgiven because of the blood of Jesus. I desire to hear Your voice clearly. In Jesus' name, I pray, Amen
Discussion Questions for PACKS:
What has your experience been like hearing the voice of God?
When you aren't hearing God, what steps do you take to resume hearing Him?
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