thinking bible.

You asked

how do other biblical authors describe divine communication—is it always quiet, or sometimes dramatic?

The passage, plainly, with room to sit with it.

1 Kings 19:11-12

He said, "Go out, and stand on the mountain before Yahweh." Behold, Yahweh passed by, and a great and strong wind tore the mountains, and broke the rocks in pieces before Yahweh; but Yahweh was not in the wind. After the wind was an earthquake, but Yahweh was not in the earthquake. After the earthquake was a fire, but Yahweh was not in the fire. After the fire a still small voice.

This passage is part of the story of the prophet Elijah, who has just experienced a great victory over the prophets of Baal, but is now fleeing for his life from Queen Jezebel. Discouraged, he journeys to Mount Horeb, where Moses once encountered God. He is seeking God's presence and direction.

How might we discern divine communication in both the dramatic events and the quiet moments of our own lives?

Keep thinking

Read alongside it

  • Exodus 19:16-19

    Describes God's dramatic appearance on Mount Sinai with thunder, lightning, and a loud trumpet blast.

  • Acts 2:2-4

    Depicts the dramatic arrival of the Holy Spirit with a sound like a mighty wind and tongues of fire.

  • Psalm 46:10

    Encourages a quiet, reflective stance: 'Be still, and know that I am God.'

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