How can we apply "I will speak; You instruct me" in daily prayer? Setting the Scene Job hears the Lord’s thunderous voice: “Listen now, and I will speak; I will question you, and you will inform Me” (Job 42:4). God turns the tables, commanding Job to answer. Though the context is God challenging Job, the phrase “I will speak; You instruct me” becomes a rich pattern for our own praying—one where we speak honestly to the Lord and immediately invite His correcting, guiding word. Unpacking the Phrase • I will speak – willing, transparent conversation with God • You instruct me – humble readiness to be taught, corrected, redirected The two halves together picture a rhythm: every word we pour out is matched by divine reply through Scripture and the Spirit. Shifting the Roles in Prayer In daily prayer we reverse Job’s experience. Instead of God asking us to instruct Him, we: 1. Speak openly to the Father—praise, petition, confession, lament. 2. Wait for His instruction—through the written Word illuminated by the Spirit (John 16:13), through godly counsel, through circumstances He ordains. Practical Ways to Apply It • Begin with the Bible open – Read a short passage aloud. Let God get the first word (Psalm 119:105). • Pour out your heart – Verbalize joys, fears, plans (Psalm 62:8). Use everyday language; He already knows. • Pause and listen – Sit in silence. Expect the Spirit to bring Scripture to mind (John 14:26). • Compare every impression with Scripture – God’s voice never contradicts His written Word (2 Timothy 3:16–17). • Journal the instructions – Record verses, promptings, and how they correct or encourage you (Habakkuk 2:2). • Obey promptly – Application cements instruction. “Be doers of the word” (James 1:22). • Circle back – End prayer by thanking Him for the light received and asking for strength to walk in it (Psalm 119:32). Scripture to Support This Approach • Psalm 25:4–5: “Show me Your ways, O LORD; teach me Your paths… for You are the God of my salvation.” • Isaiah 30:21: “Your ears will hear this command behind you: ‘This is the way. Walk in it.’” • Proverbs 3:5–6: “Trust in the LORD with all your heart… and He will make your paths straight.” • John 10:27: “My sheep listen to My voice; I know them, and they follow Me.” Summary Takeaways • Speak freely; God invites honest dialogue. • Submit fully; the same God who questioned Job now graciously teaches His children. • Scripture remains the sure channel of instruction. • Listening is as vital as speaking; obedience seals the conversation. |
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