Summary

In this sermon, Pastor discusses how God speaks to us through various means, using the story of Elijah from 1 Kings as a powerful example. The message explores how Elijah confronted King Ahab and Queen Jezebel during Israel's moral decline into idolatry. Despite being "a human being just like us" (James 5:17), Elijah heard God's specific instructions and demonstrated extraordinary faith - from announcing a drought, being fed by ravens, witnessing the miracle of endless flour and oil for a widow, raising her son from death, and ultimately challenging the prophets of Baal in a dramatic showdown on Mount Carmel where God answered with fire from heaven.

The sermon emphasizes that God speaks specifically to us today just as He did to Elijah, through answered prayers, confirmations, and sometimes in a gentle whisper rather than dramatic displays. The pastor encourages listeners to recognize that God has their names "engraved on the palms of His hands" (Isaiah 49:16), and invites them to bring all their burdens to God, who is always present and willing to speak into their everyday lives.

Intro Prayer

Heavenly Father, as we gather to discuss Your Word today, we thank You for the ways You speak to us. Just as You spoke clearly to Elijah, we ask that You would speak clearly to each person in this group. Open our hearts and minds to hear what You want us to know and what You want us to do. Help us recognize Your voice in our everyday lives, whether through Your Word, through answered prayers, or through a gentle whisper. May this discussion draw us closer to You and to each other. In Jesus' name, amen.

Ice Breaker

When was the last time you felt God was trying to tell you something? What was that experience like?

Key Verses

1. James 5:17
2. 1 Kings 17:1
3. 1 Kings 17:13-14
4. Isaiah 49:16
5. 1 Kings 18:21
6. 1 Kings 19:11-13

Questions

1. The sermon mentions that Elijah was "a human being just like us." How does this perspective change the way you view biblical figures and their experiences with God?
2. What are some of the ways God spoke to Elijah throughout his story? Which of these ways have you experienced God speaking in your own life?
3. The pastor shared a personal story about God confirming his call to Maine through Scripture. Have you ever experienced God speaking to you with that kind of specificity?
4. How do you distinguish between God's voice and your own thoughts or desires when seeking direction?
5. The sermon mentions that we sometimes "just do church" without experiencing the dramatic relationship God offers. What practical steps can we take to move beyond this pattern?
6. In what areas of your life might you be "wavering between two opinions" like the Israelites in 1 Kings 18:21?
7. God spoke to Elijah not in the wind, earthquake, or fire, but in a gentle whisper. Why do you think God often chooses to speak this way, and how can we better position ourselves to hear His whisper?
8. The pastor concluded by encouraging us to take all our burdens to the Lord. What burdens do you need to surrender to God right now?

Life Application

This week, set aside 15 minutes each day to intentionally listen for God's voice. Find a quiet place where you can be alone, perhaps even lying flat on the floor as the pastor mentioned he does. Begin by asking God what He wants you to know and what He wants you to do. Then be still and listen. Write down any impressions, thoughts, or Scripture that comes to mind. At the end of the week, review what you've written and look for patterns or consistent messages. Share with the group next time how this practice affected your relationship with God and your ability to hear His voice.

Key Takeaways

1. God speaks to us in numerous ways - through His Word, specific instructions, answered prayers, and sometimes in a gentle whisper.
2. God knows us personally and intimately - Isaiah 49:16 says He has engraved our names on the palms of His hands.
3. Like Elijah, we may experience both mountain-top victories and valleys of discouragement, but God remains present in both.
4. We need to confront the idols in our lives that distract us from hearing God's voice and following His direction.
5. God always provides a way of escape from evil and temptation if we choose to take it.

Ending Prayer

Lord God, thank You for speaking to us today through Your Word and the story of Elijah. We are humbled to realize that You desire to communicate with us just as specifically and personally as You did with him. Help us to quiet the noise in our lives so we can hear Your gentle whisper. Give us the courage to confront the idols that compete for our attention and worship. When we feel alone or discouraged like Elijah by the broom tree, remind us that You have our names engraved on Your hands and that You are always with us. This week, as we intentionally listen for Your voice, make Yourself known to us in new and fresh ways. We bring our burdens to You now, trusting that You care for each one. In Jesus' name, amen.