Footsteps, like the first measure of our favorite song, leave a memorable mark. They have a distinct sound, cadence, and vibration, leaving footprints of familiarity. Some of us are more light-footed, and some walk with more pep. Regardless, these footsteps are recognizable to those who know us. Whenever I hear a family member walking into our home, I can tell you who it is.
“Then the man and his wife heard the sound of the Lord God as he was walking in the garden in the cool of the day…” Genesis 3:8
What did the “sound of the Lord” sound like? Did his footsteps cause a rustling noise through the garden? Was his gait identifiable, or did Adam and Eve feel vibrations as the Lord made his way? Could there have been an audible voice? Adam and Eve “heard the sound” and recognized God immediately.
If God had a sound then, does He now? Indeed, He does. It’s possible that we aren’t as familiar with His sounds, or the wrong sounds are ringing more loudly.
What God sounds like
I don’t pretend to know all the ways God speaks. He speaks differently to each of us. But, I would like to share how I see, hear, and experience Him. Here are a few examples:
- He sounds like laughter with a good friend or encouragement when you need a cheerleader. God sounds like a listening ear and consoling words when you’re hurting. It sounds like an unexpected call or text that changes your day. He sounds like a friend and confidant.
- God sounds like the vast ocean, the majesty of mountain peaks, the beauty of rolling hills, a field brimming with sunflowers, or a pine forest emitting wafts of a sweet aroma. He sounds like creation and awe.
- The Lord sounds like words awakening from the pages of the Bible, speaking of love, companionship, mercy, grace, patience, forgiveness, gentleness, friendship, and loyalty. He sounds like a teacher and counselor.
- Thoughts and ideas that pop into my head or promptings and nudges from within also sound like God. He sounds like peace regardless of the circumstances or joy and delight experienced like no other. It sounds like a confidence that would otherwise be lacking. He sounds like a Father and Mother.
- Lastly, the sound of the Lord is loudest in the silence. Where stillness abounds, God moves loudly. When the outside noises are stifled, my heart opens up to receive the sound of the Lord with a volume that reverberates and penetrates my deepest thoughts, worries, inadequacies, and my feelings of being overwhelmed. Because, God sounds like companionship and care.
Over time
It’s taken decades of slowly learning to identify His footsteps. Though I often miss them, hindsight provides the clarity to notice His footprints more easily. And in those moments, I am reminded that He is close and that there is a tangible connection to the One who always walks beside us, the constant sound of love.
6 Responses
Wow! You hit all the ways I hear Him. It makes me wonder what sounds am I missing? And helps me be more intentional in listening throughout my day.
Love that question, Michelle. What sounds am I missing! Another way that I hear the Lord is through music.
Oh Leslie, that was so touching. I never thought of God in the sense of “footsteps”! I’ve missed a lot. Thank you!!
You and me both. Good thing He is full of new mercies everyday!
This is such a deep and reassuring post. The Sound of God’s footsteps…mainly in the darkness: the darkness of night, the darkness sometimes in the soul. The darkness of missing someone so much because his or her footsteps can no longer be heard. The sound of God then is gentleness as he consoles and reassures in the depth of our hearts and lets us hear the booming sound of His all-encompassing love.
Oh Sandra, your words are so touching and profound. I will be pondering what you wrote. God is with us in the deepest and darkest places in our heart. And His love is like a blanket that covers us when we hurt, keeps us secure when we need shelter, and restores us when we need rest. It makes me think of being a kid and having a a security blanket only better!