Your Father Would Like To Hear Your Voice

Ruth Bell Graham was the wife of evangelist Billy Graham and mother of five children. Born to missionary parents in China, Ruth faithfully supported her husband throughout his ministry, raising their children in his absences. Ruth was also a poet and author, and published a number of books. The following was written by Mrs. Graham as a devotional.

To Hear Your Voice

Any mother with a child away from home knows the longing to receive a letter, a call, even a card.

Once when out of the country, I called home to check on Mother and Daddy. After talking with Daddy for a few minutes, he said, "Here—your mother wants to say something." Because Mother's speech had been affected by a stroke, I wondered how she would do. She came on the line, her voice weak, her spirit indomitable. "I just wanted to hear your voice," she said.

I know how it is with me when the children are away. Just the sound of their voices warms and comforts me.

I wonder if God does not long at times just to hear our voices.

In prayer we are coming to almighty God, the Creator of the universe, the King of kings and Lord of lords.

But He is also our Father. He longs to hear from us—not only when we are asking for things, but also to tell Him we love Him and to talk over the happenings of the day, just to fellowship with our Father, who loves us.

Ruth Bell Graham said it so well. If you are having trouble with your prayer life … do not think of God as some untouchable Being. Think of Him as a Father, waiting patiently to see what His beloved child has to say. He tells you in Psalm 139:1-3 … “You may not know me, but I know everything about you. I know when you sit down and when you rise up. I am familiar with all your ways.”

He further explains … “I am not distant and angry, but am the complete expression of love.” 1 John 4:16 “And it is my desire to lavish my love on you simply because you are my child and I am your father.” 1 John 3:1

Now … does that sound like someone you can’t sit down and talk to?

So, talk to Him. After all … He may just want to hear your voice!

Larry Abele – Editorial Team